An Oxford Westgate store, and the fourth in recent months, is at risk of closing as the business falls into administration.
Shoe shop Russell & Bromley has 36 stores nationwide and all but three, including at the Westgate, are at risk.
Next has snapped up the luxury footwear business from administration in a rescue deal, but the future of most of the brand’s stores and 440 staff remains uncertain.
Administrators confirmed that Next has bought the brand and certain other assets in a pre-pack insolvency deal.
However, Next said it will only retain three of its shops – in Chelsea, Mayfair and the Bluewater Shopping Centre – as part of the deal.
Administrators at Interpath have said they are still exploring options for the remaining stores and concessions, which are continuing to trade.
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The footwear and handbags specialist was founded in 1879 in Sussex.
Next said it will pay £2.5 million for the brand and intellectual property, and £1.3 million for a portion of its current stock.
In a statement, Next said: “This acquisition secures the future of a much-loved British footwear brand.
Russell and Bromley has been bought by Next after entering administration, but most of its stores have not been included in the deal
“Next intends to build on this legacy and provide the operational stability and expertise to support Russell & Bromley’s next chapter, allowing it to return to its core mission: the design and curation of world-class, premium footwear and accessories for many years to come.”
Andrew Bromley, chief executive of Russell & Bromley, said: “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 chief executive, 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.”
Joules closed on Sunday (Image: Matt Simpson)
At the end of the month, the Westgate will lose River Island which is also in administration.
Over the weekend, Joules at the Westgate closed down with staff spotted on Tuesday packing up the store.
Earlier this month, Claire’s was put into administration, putting the Westgate branch at risk.
And the Ben Stokes-backed Sixes Social, also at the Westgate, collapsed into administration late last year and is at risk of closing.
Westgate’s spokeswoman said: “Our retail mix is constantly evolving to ensure we offer guests the very best selection of brands, with more than 100 world-class names and unique independents under our roof.
“Following a successful festive period which was boosted by the opening of new and upsized stores including Sephora, Goldsmiths, and Oliver Bonas, we are seeing continued strong demand for space at the centre.
“This momentum is set to carry on through 2026, with further exciting additions in the pipeline including the arrival of LEGO in early May. We look forward to sharing more details around brands joining our retail lineup in the coming weeks.”
Tami Lanz
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