The future of a long-established Harrogate retailer has been thrown into doubt after a national rescue deal left dozens of stores facing uncertainty.
Luxury footwear business Russell & Bromley has been bought out of administration by high street giant Next, which has paid £2.5m to acquire the brand and its intellectual property.
While all Russell & Bromley stores and concessions, including the Harrogate shop on James Street, continue to trade for now, Next has confirmed it will only take ownership of three standalone locations nationwide.
Those stores are in Chelsea, Mayfair and the Bluewater Shopping Centre, leaving the remaining 33 shops and nine concessions outside the deal.
Russell & Bromley currently operates 36 stores and nine concessions across the UK and Ireland and employs around 440 people.
The James Street branch is among those whose long-term future has not yet been decided.
Andrew Bromley, chief executive of Russell & Bromley, said:
“Following a strategic review with external advisers, we have taken the difficult decision to sell the Russell & Bromley brand.
“This is the best route to secure the future for the brand, and we would like to thank our staff, suppliers, partners and customers for their support throughout our history.”
As part of the transaction, Next has also purchased a selection of Russell & Bromley stock, meaning shoppers may begin to see some of the brand’s footwear appearing in Next stores.

Harrogate taekwondo master awarded MBE for long-standing contribution to sport
Harrogate dance group set for world record attempt
Gareth Southgate visits popular Harrogate pub
Classic car event set to return to Ripon
Ripon students take alcohol-free campaign to Parliament
Ripon's Grantley Hall named best place to stay in North and North East
Harrogate Mayor cuts ribbon at opening of new interior design shop
Celebrity chefs rally for Yorkshire children's cancer charity
Resurrected Bites CEO Michelle Hayes announces departure
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Gladiators
Harrogate recycling firm tips forecasts with £16.5m turnover despite tough trading
Cost to upgrade Harrogate Convention Centre increases by more than £2m
Taxi policy change could "finish off" industry, councillors warned
Call for decision on Maltkiln masterplan to be delayed
Ripon pupils raise over £9,000 for Parkinson's charity
Harrogate Fundraiser to share story of 9,000-mile unsupported bike ride to the himalayas
Harrogate pupils achieve distinctions across the board in drama exams
Harrogate hospital shortlisted for two national awards
Hampsthwaite school goes red to support children's heart charity
Harrogate Convention Centre upgrade reaches new milestone


