LK Bennett at Trafford Centre to shut down amid closures

LK Bennett currently operates a concession at John Lewis in the Trafford Centre, alongside nine standalone stores and 13 concessions across the UK and Ireland.

The retailer has been acquired by US investment firm Gordon Brothers, which also owns Laura Ashley and Poundland.

However, the deal did not include LK Bennett’s physical stores or concessions.

Administrators have confirmed that the outlets will continue trading for up to three months, with all remaining stores and concessions expected to close by spring 2026, likely around April.

A statement published on the LK Bennett website said: “John Noon and Mark Firmin of Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP were appointed Joint Administrators of LK Bennett Fashion Limited on 27 January 2026 pursuant to paragraph 22 of Schedule B1 to the Insolvency Act 1986.

“Immediately following their appointment, the LK Bennett brand and related intellectual property were sold to LKB IP Holdings, LLC, a Gordon Brothers-affiliated entity.

“The LK Bennett stores were not included in the transaction and continue to trade under the administration.

“Online sales via the LK Bennett website continue for the foreseeable future.”

The closures could lead to up to 89 redundancies, according to retail trade publication Drapers.

LK Bennett employs around 145 staff across the UK and Ireland, with 89 roles linked to its store and concession estate.

Founded in London in 1990 by Linda Bennett, the brand rose to prominence in the 1990s and early 2000s and became a favourite of the Princess of Wales, contributing to its reputation as a premium British fashion label.

Shoppers in Trafford and across Greater Manchester will still be able to visit the John Lewis concession in the short term, but it is expected to close permanently once the administration trading period ends.