Philip Browne, a well-known menswear store in Norwich, is closing after 38 years.
- The closure follows Frasers Group’s acquisition of the store last year from JD Sports Fashion.
- Philip Browne’s history includes launching collections from top designers like Alexander McQueen.
- Frasers Group has been acquiring and closing several independent fashion retailers.
- Uncertainty remains over the future use of the current retail location in Norwich.
Philip Browne, a respected name in high-end menswear, is set to shut down after nearly four decades of service in Norwich. The decision comes in the wake of the store’s acquisition by Frasers Group from JD Sports Fashion last March. This closure signifies the end of an era for a retailer known for its influential role in introducing brands such as Alexander McQueen, Helmut Lang, and John Galliano to the market.
Since opening in 1986, Philip Browne has built a reputation for providing Norwich with high-end fashion in a welcoming environment. The store currently stocks a variety of brands, including Moncler, Salomon, and Canada Goose. The store continued to operate post-acquisition, but its closure has now been confirmed for the upcoming month.
Frasers Group has made strategic moves in acquiring several independent fashion retailers, with Philip Browne being the latest affected. Prior closures include Thackerays in Northampton and Aphrodite in Sunderland. Other casualties of Frasers’ acquisition strategy include John Anthony and Zee & Co, both of which have seen site reductions or closures. The pattern indicates a deliberate shift by Frasers towards consolidating its position in the national luxury retail landscape.
The future of the premises at 3 Guildhall Hill remains uncertain. Frasers recently opened a new Flannels store nearby, raising questions about potential plans for the now-vacant location. Despite inquiries, Frasers Group has chosen not to comment on the closure or future plans for the site.
In discussing their acquisition strategy, Frasers CFO Chris Wootton noted the shift from a boutique-focused market to a more extensive national retail strategy post the acquisition of Flannels in 2017. This approach has led to case-by-case evaluations of potential store acquisitions based on location and strategic value.
The closure of Philip Browne marks a significant shift in the retail landscape as Frasers Group continues to reshape its acquisition strategy.
