Register to get free articles
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
Next has its sights set on a potential acquisition of British handbag company Radley, according to Sky News.
The news organisation reported that the high street fashion retailer was in talks with Radley’s owners about a takeover of its brand and intellectual property assets.
Next, run by Lord Wolfson, joins the turnaround investor Gordon Brothers among the bidders for the luxury accessory group.
Retail industry sources told Sky on Tuesday (14 April) that any agreement could involve a pre-pack administration, though the final result of the sale is allegedly far from settled.
If a deal is struck, it would further extend Next’s recent streak of acquisitions and investments. Most recently, the London-listed firm scooped up family-owned shoe company Russell and Bromley, a move which safeguarded the brand’s future but largely erased its individual high street presence.
Recent years have also seen Next secure brands such as Cath Kidston, Joules and discount maternitywear retailer Seraphine.
Its current holdings also include Made.com, the online furniture company, and high street fashion brand FatFace. Under Lord Wolfson, chief executive since 2001, Next has flown in the face of Britain’s high street headwinds.
By leveraging its ‘Total Platform’ system, it has absorbed third-party brands into its logistics, e-commerce and digital services network, such as Victoria’s Secret and Gap.
Radley, according to its latest accounts filed in November, recorded a £2.2m loss for the year ending April 2025 – a figure weighed down by costs associated with exiting three US store leases ahead of schedule.
Around 15% of group revenues hail from the US, which fell to £65.8m from £72m the year prior.
Established in the late ’90s by Australian designer Lowell Harder, Radley began as a humble Camden Market stall before evolving into a brand favoured by celebrities like Paloma Faith.
The company, operated by chief executive Nick Vance, has increasingly focused on adopting an omnichannel model in recent years.
Retail Sector has contacted Next and Radley for comment.
