Vintage-inspired Cath Kidston is a designer, wholesaler and retailer of fabrics, homewares, clothing and fashion accessories. The business trades through around 80 outlets in the UK plus a number of concessions and outlets, but most of its recent expansion has taken place internationally, with a particular focus on Asia. Japan and China are its primary target markets, with plans to open over 50 stores in China in the next five years. Founded in 1993 by Cath Kidston, its products promise “English heritage designs with a modern twist”. The retailer operates a high-profile flagship store in London. At 7,000 sq ft across three floors, the store is four times as large as its average UK store size, allowing the company to showcase its entire product range. Cath Kidston’s domestic store locations reflect its upmarket customer base – with a strong south-eastern bias. To drive growth, Cath Kidston is beginning to focus on its online offering, as well as its marketing – including collaborations with celebrities – to extend its demographic.
As pureplays Boohoo and Asos scoop up the brand rights to former high street darlings Debenhams and Topshop, switching them to online only, Retail Week gleans lessons from brands that have already ditched their stores.
Fashion and homewares retailer Cath Kidston has unveiled a ‘digital first’ strategy as it seeks a turnaround following its collapse earlier this year.
The past few months have had a devastating impact on UK retail and swathes of chains have collapsed, but there is light at the end of the tunnel for some of these businesses. Retail Week takes a look at what the future holds for retail’s Covid casualties.
Fashion retailer Cath Kidston’s 60 UK stores are likely to be closed and the business will focus on trading online and wholesale.
Topshop owner Arcadia is likely to close many more shops as it reels under the blow of the coronavirus pandemic.
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