Danni Hewson, head of financial analysis at AJ Bell, said: “The high street is a tough place to do business nowadays and Russell & Bromley has succumbed to the myriad of pressures currently facing retailers.
“Not one to miss an opportunity, Next has stepped in to buy the brand and take on three flagship stores.
“That leaves the rest of the Russell & Bromley network up the creek somewhat, now that Next has swallowed up what it wants from the business.
“This isn’t the first time Next has swooped in on an ailing retailer, and has performed similar manoeuvres with Joules, Made and Cath Kidston.
“As much as this tells you how difficult high street trading has become, it also demonstrates how a well run company like Next can still prosper in challenging conditions, and have enough cash to pick up the pieces when other retailers fall by the wayside.”
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