Russell & Bromley, a beloved UK high street shoe chain, has officially collapsed into administration and will no longer honor gift cards or loyalty points. Despite this, Next has purchased the retailer out of administration for £3.8 million, acquiring only three of its 36 stores and about 48 staff members.
The remaining 33 stores, which employ roughly 400 staff, will close as part of a major downsizing. Stores nationwide now display bright yellow signs announcing “EVERYTHING MUST GO” and “STORE CLOSING DOWN,” marking the start of extensive closing down sales.
Founded in 1879 in Eastbourne, East Sussex, Russell & Bromley built a longstanding reputation for quality footwear with 36 stores and nine concessions across the UK and Ireland. Next plans to operate only three locations—in Chelsea, Mayfair, and the Bluewater shopping centre—while the rest are set to close.
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Next’s FAQs clarify that all existing gift cards are void and won’t be accepted. Customers with questions are advised to contact the administrators directly at [email protected]. Administrator firm Interpath will continue to trade the remaining stores for as long as possible as it evaluates future options.
Next has stated its goal to refocus Russell & Bromley on delivering “world-class, premium footwear and accessories,” aiming to preserve the brand’s heritage of quality craftsmanship. Will Wright, UK CEO of Interpath, emphasized the brand’s historic importance and the intention to maintain operations during this transitional period.