Major fashion chain opening 4 new UK stores after falling into administration

Joules plans to open four new stores across the UK after a turnaround following its collapse into administration in November 2022. The retailer entered administration amid rising costs and weaker consumer demand, but it was bought out of administration by Next and founder Tom Joule in a deal worth £34 million. Even after the rescue, 19 stores closed, costing 133 jobs. Since the takeover, Joules has cut its footprint from 132 shops to 53. The company now expects openings including Northallerton (99–100 High Street) on 23 October 2026, Harrogate (18 James Street) on 24 November 2026, and sites in Gretna and Basingstoke by end of 2026 and spring 2027 respectively, with the full list on its website.