Philip Browne, a luxury menswear retailer in Norwich, is set to shut its doors after 38 years, following its acquisition by the Frasers Group last year.
- The store gained recognition for being the starting ground for fashion icons like Alexander McQueen, selling their initial collections.
- Currently, the retailer stocks high-end brands such as Moncler, Salomon, and Adidas, but it will soon cease trading.
- While the future of the Norwich store remains uncertain, it follows a pattern of closures linked to Frasers’ acquisition strategy.
- Frasers Group, known for its acquisition of independent boutiques across the UK, has not commented on the store’s impending closure.
The men’s fashion store Philip Browne, located in the heart of Norwich, is closing after an impressive 38-year run. Its inception dates back to 1986, with the aim to deliver top-tier fashion in an inviting space. The shop has been lauded for its early support of esteemed designers such as Alexander McQueen and Helmut Lang, showcasing their debut collections to the public.
Philip Browne currently offers a selection of premium brands, including Moncler, Salomon, Canada Goose, Adidas, Snow Peak, and Asics. Despite this impressive lineup, the store is expected to shutter its operations soon, a decision coinciding with Frasers Group’s takeover last March. Details regarding the future use of the premises at 3 Guildhall Hill remain scant, leaving questions about the store’s replacement or future plans.
Frasers Group acquired Philip Browne from JD Sports Fashion, which had earlier purchased the store from its founder in 2022. This shift in ownership is part of a broader trend for Frasers, which has been aggressively expanding through the acquisition of independent retailers. Notably, Frasers also purchased the Thackerays store in Northampton and the Aphrodite store in Sunderland, both of which have since closed.
This pattern of acquisition and closure has raised industry eyebrows, prompted by remarks from Chris Wootton, CFO of Frasers Group. He indicated a strategic shift towards national retailing, highlighting that while some boutiques are attractive acquisitions due to their locations, decisions are approached on a case-by-case basis. This approach underpins Frasers’ transition from boutique-focused to national market dominance, a move apparent in the conversion of various independent stores across the UK.
Despite requests for comment, Frasers Group remained reticent about the specifics surrounding Philip Browne’s closure. The lack of communication has done little to clarify its strategy regarding the shop in Norwich or how this fits into their broader retail objectives.
Philip Browne’s closure marks a significant moment in Norwich’s retail history, highlighting the shifting sands of the UK’s fashion landscape.
