Cath Kidston is making a comeback to the high street after its 2020 administration setback.
- The British homeware brand was acquired by Next for £8.5 million in 2023.
- A flagship store is set to open in Westfield White City, London, in October 2024.
- Next has not confirmed plans for additional Cath Kidston store openings.
- Cath Kidston’s return marks a strategic shift from its online-only presence established post-administration.
Cath Kidston, the renowned British homeware retailer, is set to make a significant return to the high street following its collapse into administration in 2020. The brand, well known for its vibrant and playful prints, faced a challenging period that resulted in the closure of 60 UK stores and the loss of 900 jobs. However, a positive turn of events arrived when Next acquired the company in a deal worth £8.5 million in 2023, signalling a new chapter for the beloved retailer.
In October 2024, Cath Kidston plans to open a new flagship store at London’s Westfield White City, a move anticipated to revitalise its physical retail presence. The announcement was made through a teaser video posted on Instagram, exciting many longstanding fans of the brand with the statement, ‘Why yes. Yes, you guessed right. We do indeed have a new home opening soon. Can anyone tell where in London we’ll be opening our doors?’ This strategic location choice is expected to leverage high foot traffic and boost brand visibility.
While the opening of the Westfield White City store marks a promising start, Next has not disclosed any further plans regarding additional Cath Kidston outlets. This decision keeps industry analysts speculating about the broader retail strategy Next might employ for the brand, who previously focussed on maintaining an online presence after securing new funding post-administration.
The history of Cath Kidston’s financial struggles is marked by several pivotal changes in ownership. After the initial closure of physical stores, the brand continued operations online with support from parent company Baring Private Equity Asia. In 2022, Cath Kidston was acquired by Hilco, before Next’s acquisition in 2023. Each transition aimed to bolster the brand’s resilience and adapt to the changing retail landscape.
In summary, Cath Kidston’s re-entry into the high street is not merely a business decision but a testament to its enduring appeal and adaptability in a dynamic retail environment.
Cath Kidston’s strategic revival under Next’s ownership brings renewed hope for its brand, signalling an encouraging shift towards sustainable growth.
