In a significant revival for British retail, the historic fashion brand Topshop is returning to high streets across the United Kingdom through a strategic partnership with John Lewis. The brand, which shuttered its final standalone stores in 2021, will debut in all 32 John Lewis department stores starting Tuesday, marking a pivotal moment in its post-administration journey.
A Major Retail Comeback
This launch represents a key expansion of new brands for the spring and summer season, underpinned by John Lewis's substantial £800 million long-term investment across its store network. The partnership between John Lewis and Topshop was initially confirmed last year, beginning with pop-up installations in select John Lewis locations before evolving into this nationwide rollout.
From Online to Physical Presence
Topshop and its sister brand Topman have been absent from UK high streets since their former owner, Arcadia, collapsed into administration in 2021. The brand was subsequently acquired by Asos, which continued to sell Topshop products exclusively online. However, the brand began its physical retail resurgence last year with a launch at London's Liberty department store, followed shortly by the announcement of its tie-up with John Lewis.
Topshop will be available across all 32 John Lewis shops, while Topman will be featured in seven of these stores. The launch encompasses a curated collection of 130 of Topshop's most in-demand pieces, including their signature denim items. Both brands will also be accessible via John Lewis's online platforms as part of this comprehensive launch.
Executive Insights and Strategic Vision
Michelle Wilson, Managing Director of Topshop, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: "Today is about making it easier for customers to access the Topshop and Topman pieces they love. From our cult denim to new-season footwear, you can see it, feel it, and take it home the same day. Partnering with John Lewis brings Topshop back to high streets across the UK with the level of service our customers expect."
The launch coincides with London Fashion Week and will be complemented by a promotional "takeover" of Piccadilly Circus in London, along with activations in other locations across the UK. This move is part of broader efforts by the John Lewis Partnership to drive growth and execute a major transformation plan under the leadership of Managing Director Peter Ruis.
Driving Fashion Ambition
Mr. Ruis emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, noting: "This moment marks a significant acceleration of our fashion ambition at John Lewis. To be the exclusive home of an iconic brand like Topshop, sat alongside other exciting new brands, signals our commitment to be the definitive style authority on the British high street." He highlighted that John Lewis is investing in its fashion offerings to support its current strategy, which includes introducing 14 new fashion, jewellery, and accessory labels ahead of this season.
This expansion follows a major redesign of the fashion floors at John Lewis's flagship Oxford Street store, further underscoring the retailer's commitment to enhancing its fashion portfolio. The partnership aims to leverage Topshop's iconic status to attract customers and reinforce John Lewis's position as a leading destination for style on the high street.
Store Locations and Availability
Topshop products will be available at the following John Lewis stores across the UK:
- Glasgow, Scotland
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Newcastle
- Leeds
- Liverpool
- Trafford, Manchester
- Cheadle, Manchester
- Cardiff, Wales
- Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
- Leicester, Leicestershire
- Solihull, West Midlands
- Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
- Norwich, Norfolk
- Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
- Welwyn, Hertfordshire
- Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
- Chelmsford, Essex
- Cribbs Causeway, Bristol
- Exeter, Devon
- Oxford, Oxfordshire
- High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire
- Reading, Berkshire
- Bluewater, Kent
- Horsham, West Sussex
- Southampton, Hampshire
- Brent Cross, London
- Stratford, London
- Canary Wharf, London
- Oxford Street, London
- Peter Jones, London
- White City, London
- Kingston, London
This nationwide availability ensures that customers across the UK can once again experience Topshop's iconic fashion in person, marking a new chapter for the brand and the British retail landscape.
