Iconic British shoe retailer Russell & Bromley has closed 10 of its stores, prompting shoppers to flock to branches for clearance sales offering up to 90% off. The closures include locations in Covent Garden, Bath, and Harrogate, with further shutdowns expected as part of a restructuring following Next's acquisition of the brand in January.
Customers have taken to social media to share their bargains, with one TikTok user showcasing a pair of boots originally priced at £900 now selling for just £128. Another shopper at the Ashford store described the discounts as 'crazy', noting shoes reduced from over £300 to £30. The sales have drawn large crowds eager to snap up deals on both current and previous season collections.
The closures follow Next's pre-pack administration deal, which secured the Russell & Bromley name, intellectual property, and three flagship stores in Chelsea, Mayfair, and Bluewater. The deal also transferred 40 staff members to Next. Russell & Bromley previously operated 36 standalone stores and nine concessions across the UK and Ireland, employing around 440 people.
Founded in 1880 in Eastbourne by George Bromley and Elizabeth Russell, the brand became known for its loafers, boots, pumps, and brogues, attracting a loyal following including celebrities such as Kate Middleton, Katie Holmes, and Billie Piper. The remaining stores are expected to close gradually, with clearance events continuing until stock is exhausted.
