Wed, 21 Jan 2026 | BUSINESS SALE
The brand and certain other assets of historic footwear retailer Russell & Bromley are to be acquired by retail giant Next in a pre-pack deal. Despite the sale, administrators from Interpath Advisory are still exploring options for more than 30 of the brand’s stores and concessions.
Russell & Bromley was founded in Sussex in 1879 and specialises in men’s and women’s footwear, as well as bags and accessories. The firm trades from 36 stores and nine concessions across the UK and Ireland, employing approximately 440 staff.
A pre-pack insolvency sale is being undertaken by Interpath Advisory’s Will Wright and Chris Pole, with the deal expected to be approved later on Wednesday, January 21 2026. The deal will see Next acquire the Russell & Bromley brand and other intellectual property assets, in addition to three stores in Chelsea, Mayfair and the Bluewater Shopping Centre.
33 stores and all nine of Russell & Bromley’s concessions are not included in the transaction, but will remain open and trading while the joint administrators explore options for the sites.
Andrew Bromley, Chief Executive at Russell & Bromley, commented: "Following a strategic review with external advisers, we have taken the difficult decision to sell the Russell & Bromley brand. This is the best route to secure the future for the brand, and we would like to thank our staff, suppliers, partners and customers for their support throughout our history."
Will Wright, Interpath's UK CEO, said: “Across its 147-year history, Russell & Bromley has been at the forefront of contemporary style. We're pleased therefore to have concluded this transaction, which will preserve the brand and the commitment to quality craftmanship that it has become so well known for.”
"Our intention is to continue to trade the remaining portfolio of stores for as long as we can, while we explore the options available."
In accounts for the year to December 31 2023, Russell & Bromley Limited reported turnover of around £39.8 million, down from £44.9 million a year earlier, while operating losses increased from £3.8 million to £6.8 million.
At the time, its fixed assets were valued at around £15.6 million and current assets at £56.1 million, with net assets amounting to £23.4 million.
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