1,600 jobs at risk as high street fashion chain in administration

HIGH street fashion chain Joules has fallen into administration.

Will Wright, Ryan Grant and Chris Pole from Interpath Advisory were appointed joint administrators of Joules Group plc and Joules Limited.

The group, headquartered in Market Harborough,

Leicestershire, currently operates 132 stores across the UK, employing over 1600 people, with 74 roles and nine outlets in Scotland.

The joint administrators will continue to trade the group as a going concern while they assess options for the business, including exploring the possibility of a sale as a going concern.

Mr Wright and Mr Grant were also appointed joint administrators of Joules Developments Limited and The Garden Trading Company Limited.

Joules, known “for its premium, colourful clothing

... inspired by country living”, earlier warned over its position. All stores, including the group’s online store, will remain open. Mr Wright said: “Joules is one of the most recognisable names on the high street, with a unique brand identity and loyal customer base. Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern during this vitally important Christmas trading period while we assess options for the group, including a possible sale. Since the group’s announcement on Monday, we have had an overwhelming amount of interest from interested parties.

“We will be working hard over the days ahead to assess this interest, but at this stage we are optimistic that we will be able to secure a future for this great British brand.”