Ten Russell & Bromley shoe shops across Britain have closed or are due to close after the brand was acquired by Next in a rescue deal that included only three of its 36 stores. Russell & Bromley's Covent Garden branch in London is closing on April 22, 2026, while shops in Exeter, Hampstead, Winchester, Stratford, Birmingham, Jermyn Street, and Canary Wharf have already closed. Three outlet stores in Swindon, Ashford, and Cheshire Oaks have also shut. The closures follow the company's acquisition by Next in January 2026, which included only three stores: in Chelsea, Mayfair, and Bluewater Shopping Centre. Next acquired the brand name, domain names, and intellectual property for £2.5 million in cash.
A spokeswoman for administrators at Interpath said further shop closures are anticipated over the coming week, according to Daily Mail - Money. She did not confirm how many jobs are being lost. In total, 33 shops and nine concessions are at risk of closure, with the potential loss of hundreds of jobs. Russell & Bromley previously employed around 440 staff. Next transferred 40 employees to its company as part of the deal.
Earlier this year, Russell & Bromley's chief executive Andrew Bromley said it was a 'difficult decision', but said the sale of the brand was the best way to secure its future.
Affected Russell & Bromley shops are offering discounts of up to 90 per cent. However, Russell & Bromley gift cards or loyalty points cannot be used in Russell & Bromley shops or via Next. Customers who purchased before January 21, 2026 and need a refund for faulty items must contact administrators.
According to Daily Mail - Money, Russell & Bromley's chief executive Andrew Bromley described the sale as the best way to secure the brand's future. The exact timeline for remaining store closures remains unclear, and it is unknown whether any additional stores will be saved or transferred to Next. The total number of stores that will ultimately close has not been confirmed, nor have the reasons for Russell & Bromley's financial struggles leading to administration been disclosed.