Gunwharf Quays sorry to see Russell & Bromley go as it confirms closure date
Gunwharf Quays has confirmed the closure date of a shoe shop after the company was sold to Next in a multi-million pound deal
The shop, which is located next to Puma and Reiss, has entered an “everything must go” sale selling goods at a fraction of th price, with a Gunwharf Quays spokesperson confirming its last day of trading will be on Wednesday, April 15.
Gunwharf Quays said: “We’re sorry to see Russell & Bromley close, and our thoughts are with those impacted by the closure.
“Creating a vibrant, varied retail destination is our priority and we’re always looking for ways to provide our guests with new experiences.
“To keep our retail mix fresh and relevant to our guests, we’re constantly talking to brands about opening up new spaces. We’re looking forward to sharing more details about some of the brands coming to the outlet soon.”
Following The New’s previous report of the closure, one reader said: “I have been buying Russell and Bromley shoes for over 40yrs and I am gutted to see them go, best quality, most comfortable and just great shoes, sandals and boots. Will have to go barefoot now as never found anywhere else that does good quality.”
The Portsmouth site was previously confirmed as one of the 33 stores at risk following the acquisition, which was a strategic move to secure the brand’s future, according to Russell & Bromley’s CEO, Andrew Bromley, who previously said the decision was a “difficult” one to make.
Next, which has said it will continue to operate Russell & Bromley stores in Chelsea, Mayfair and Kent, is currently focusing on a major programme of expansion, with the retail giant growing its UK footprint through extensive online offerings and new store openings. Most recently, it was confirmed a new Next site would open in Chichester’s Portfield Retail Park this summer, featuring an in-store Costa Coffee cafe.
In a previous statement, a spokesperson for Next said: "This acquisition secures the future of a much-loved British footwear brand.
"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."
As part of the deal, Next also paid a further £1.3 million to retain existing stock which can now be found on its website alongside a multitude of other brands including Nike, Calvin Klein, Dune, Coach, Lipsy, Jigsaw, Hobbs, Dyson, Lancome and more.