A beloved fashion and homeware chain is making a surprise return to the high street, with a new store set to open next month.
Known for its vintage-inspired designs and floral patterns, Cath Kidston had been a fixture of the British high street since 1993, with more than 200 outlets across the world at its peak.
However, the retailer crashed into administration for the second time last year, with its last four stores closing in June 2023.
The brand was acquired by Next in March 2023, meaning people could continue to shop Cath Kidston online and in Next stores.
But now, the brand is due a physical return, with a new store opening on October 18 at Westfield in White City, London.
A teaser video on Cath Kidston’s Instagram page confirmed the news last week.
In the caption, the retailer wrote: ‘Why yes. Yes, you guessed right. We do indeed have a new home opening soon. Can anyone tell where in London we’ll be opening our doors?’
The video first showed the Shepherd’s Bush tube station before revealing a Cath Kidston advertisement inside Westfield White City.
Reacting to the news, one shopper commented: ‘I was heartbroken when the stores closed!’
Another wrote: ‘Omg! Yay, welcome back! A trip to London may be needed.’ Others agreed they were ‘super excited’ about the return and ‘can’t wait to visit’.
It is unconfirmed whether Next plans to open more Cath Kidston stores in addition to its Westfield location. Metro.co.uk has contacted the retailer for comment.
Cath Kidston isn’t the only bust brand to make a return to the high street. Wilko, now operated by the Range, has opened six new stores since its collapse in August 2023.
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Shoppers can browse Wilko’s home and gardenware products from in Poole, St Albans, Rotherham, Luton, Exeter and Plymouth.
CDS Superstores, which owns and operates The Range, is reportedly keen to open 300 stores under the Wilko logo.
Toys R Us has also managed to make a comeback. The chain, which went bust in 2018, has relaunched and has opened up concessions in WH Smith.
The mini shops are open at 39 locations nationwide. The toy brand has also updated its website for shoppers to browse for products online.
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