Shoppers are ecstatic following the return of an iconic brand to the UK high street. The business collapsed into administration during the Covid-19 pandemic, forcing the closure of around 150 shops across the UK, but has now made an exciting return.
People have been flocking to the new Laura Ashley store in Essex after it opened on Friday, September 26. The 10,000 sq ft store, located in the Lakeside shopping centre, is being operated in partnership with Next. A store spokesperson said in a post on Facebook: “It’s official, our new store is here, and we can’t wait to welcome you. Come and visit us.”
The brand was founded by Welsh designer Laura Ashley and her husband, Bernard, in London in 1953. It became iconic over the years, with Lady Diana favouring the brand as a teenager.
However, Laura Ashley was tipped into administration in 2020 as a result of the Covid pandemic. A total of 70 stores were closed immediately while a further 77 were then shut after the business was bought by retail investors Gordon Brothers.
The business was offloaded to Marquee Brands earlier this year. Heath Golden, chief of Marquee Brands, said the firm was “primed and ready” to reignite Laura Ashley.
He said he hoped to “unlock its future potential as a full lifestyle brand innovating new products and categories, offering unique collaborations and engaging multi-generational audiences in key markets worldwide”.
On the Essex opening, Rachel Terrace, chief commercial and growth officer at Marquee Brands, added: “This opening represents a significant milestone in Laura Ashley’s return to the UK retail market and signals the next phase of growth for the brand.”
A number of shoppers have responded to the news on Facebook. Many called for a new store in their area.
One wrote: “Wonderful news! It’s been much missed.” A second said: “Good to see it back on the high street. Hope there are plans for more.”
A third put: “Add Norfolk to the list, please!” A fourth added: “Get one back in Glasgow, please!”
