Skip to main content
BoF Logo

Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

Austin Reed Enters Administration

British fashion retailer Austin Reed has fallen into administration, dealing another blow to the UK retail sector a day after department store BHS also sought creditor protection.
Source: Shutterstock
By
  • Reuters

LONDON, United Kingdom — British fashion retailer Austin Reed fell into administration on Tuesday, dealing another blow to the UK retail sector a day after department store BHS also sought creditor protection.

Executives from Alix Partners were appointed as the 116-year old Austin Reed's administrators, the business advisory firm said.

"Following their appointment, the joint administrators will continue to trade the group while exploring all possible options for its future including a sale of all or parts of the business," it said.

The move puts the jobs of its 1,184 staff in danger, adding to the up to 11,000 put at risk by BHS's collapse into administration on Monday.

ADVERTISEMENT

Austin Reed, which trades from 100 standalone stores and 50 concessions throughout the UK and Ireland, has struggled to compete in Britain's intensely competitive clothing market for years.

By James Davey; editor: Jason Neely.

In This Article
Topics
Organisations

© 2026 The Business of Fashion. All rights reserved. For more information read our Terms & Conditions

More from Retail
Analysis and advice from the front lines of the retail transformation.

The New Reality of Shipping to Saks

While $1.75 billion in court-approved funding has brought labels back to the fold, the real test for vendors will come when that temporary safety net vanishes later this year.


The Step-by-Step Guide to Brand Elevation | Case Study

A growing number of mass and premium brands are pushing upmarket with a more luxe look, better materials and, often, higher prices. This case study unpacks how these labels are navigating the tricky challenge of elevating a brand.


view more
Latest News & Analysis
Unrivalled, world class journalism across fashion, luxury and beauty industries.

What Is Nike Doing With Its ACG Label?

The activewear giant seems intent on turning its nearly 40-year-old niche outdoor fashion brand into a mainstream success. The plan hinges on convincing backpackers and athletes its rugged technical gear can perform just as well as The North Face or Arc’teryx.


Question Time in Paris

It’s not an existential crisis — yet — but Rick Owens and Daniel Roseberry confront some headscratchers in their latest collections.


VIEW MORE
Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.
CONNECT WITH US ON