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-based Sporting Influence Foundation to tackle 24 climbs in 24 hours
Giant vegetables take centre stage at Harrogate Autumn Flower Show
Alpamare waterpark to be sold to 'protect its future' with private investment
Roadworks causing growing disruption in Harrogate and Knaresborough, officials admit
Yorkshire artist brings Harrogate's Old Market Hall back to life
Martin House hosts first children's palliative care conference
Judge appointed to lead inquiry into North Yorkshire mental health trust
Harrogate group raise more than £40,000 with cycle to Bordeaux
Scotton pub wins Tripadvisor award for seventh year running
Almost 2,000 people sign Knaresborough landslip petition
Police appeal after Range Rover damaged in Knaresborough
St Aidan's teacher recognised at national Teacher of the Year Awards
Bramham Park to host its first Christmas market
Harvest gown unveiled for flower show's 50th anniversary
Ripon's Mario's Restaurant named among Tripadvisor's top 10%
Harrogate Rugby Club reveals plans for clubhouse expansion and padel courts
Police appeal after Lister House minibus vandalised in Ripon
Council urged to "show me the money" and provide evidence of home-to-school policy change savings
Kate Mosse and Prue Leith among stars of Harrogate Literature Festival
Ripon among UK's top cities for missing parcels


