Manchester chain latest to fall victim to slump on high street

Fashion brand Henri Lloyd has become the latest victim of the slump on the high street.

The firm, which was launched in Manchester in the 1960s, has called in the administrators.

The waterproof clothing specialist, which is aimed at the sailing set, has seven stores across the UK.

RSM Restructuring Advisory, who have been appointed administrators, said Henri Lloyd faced ‘challenging trading conditions on the high street’.

A statement said: “Chris Ratten and Jeremy Woodside of RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP have been appointed joint administrators of Henri Lloyd Limited and Henri Lloyd International Limited on June 8, 2018.

“The decision to appoint administrators was made due to challenging trading conditions on the high street.

“It’s early days but we are talking to potential interested parties and working with our professional advisers to review the status of the business with a view to maximising the returns to creditors.”
The Duchess of Cambridge is a fan of the brand which has a reputation for innovation in the designs of its waterproof clothing.

The company was set up by Angus Lloyd and Henri Strzelecki.

Strzelecki had been a decorated soldier in the Polish Army who came t Manchester to study textiles and design before working with local clothing companies.

He earned the nickname ‘Waterproof Henry’ for his pioneering designs and was given an OBE in 1985.

It was a tough week for retail last week with House of Fraser announcing it is closing half of its stores including three in the North West.

On the same day budget chain Poundworld filed a notice of intent to appoint administrators.

The company has ten days to continue rescue before the creditors close in.

The owners TPG Capital, the US private equity group, are in talks with potential buyers.

Other retailers to have hit problems include Mothercare, New Look and Toys R Us.