UK fashion retailer returns to high street after administration

Earlier in 2026, Russell & Bromley announced all but three of its 36 stores were at risk as they had not been bought in a rescue deal.

Next 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 remained uncertain.

Closing down signs then appeared at the Russell & Bromley store at Westgate Oxford, with customers warned of the expected closure.

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The shop has been left completely empty since last month, with its shelves bare after its closure.

The unit, which can be found on the bottom floor of the retail location near John Lewis, now only has a paper notice on the door as a reminder alongside the Russell & Bromley signs.

“This store is now closed,” read the notice.

“Find your nearest store,” it added along with Next’s website link.

Now, according to a report in Drapers, Russell & Bromley’s recently shuttered store in Richmond, south west London, has reopened under the ownership of Next.

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It remains to be seen if the brand would reopen a store in Oxfordshire or if the products will be stocked at Next stores instead.

There is a Next at Westgate Oxford, not far from the closed Russell & Bromley, as well as other stores in the county, including Bicester, Didcot and Witney.

Would-be shoppers were also recently told that neither gift cards nor loyalty points would be accepted at the shoe shop.

A statement in March said: “While the previous operator has ceased trading, the Russell & Bromley brand will be operated by Next in the near future.”

The Next website at the time added: “These can no longer be used and we will not be able to honour these. For any queries about these, please contact the Administrators.”