A major UK fashion chain has closed all of its standalone stores following a clearance sale after entering administration. LK Bennett appointed administrators earlier this year, before being bought by US investment firm Gordon Brothers which owns other brands such as Poundland and Laura Ashley.

LK Bennett's nine standalone stores and 13 concessions were not part of the deal. On its website, the upmarket brand confirmed its "website and stores are now closed", however its concessions are still open for now. LK Bennett launched huge sales in the weeks before the store closures.

In a post on Instagram on Saturday, it said: "We're nearly at the end.

"With only 2 days remaining, tomorrow is your last moment to shop our collections in-store with everything up to 90% off.

"Our boutiques will remain open today as long as stock lasts, but once it's gone, our doors will close."

The next day it added: "Due to exceptional demand, all remaining stock in our standalone LK Bennett boutiques has now sold out.

"These stores have closed earlier than planned and will not reopen today."

Concessions will remain open "for a few more days, while stock lasts", it said.

LK Bennett was founded in 1990 and is described on its website as "the British affordable luxury brand", selling clothes, shoes and accessories for women.

Nimit Shah, Managing Director, EMEA at Gordon Brothers, gave an insight into the possible future for the brand when it was acquired in late January.

He said: "We believe the LK Bennett brand is capable of reinvigoration under a new asset-light model."

Several high street retailers have closed a significant number of stores in recent years.

Brands have been facing challenges including high energy costs, inflation and changing consumer behaviours, with people increasingly choosing to shop online.

• Lower Guildhall Mall (Bluewater)




• Canary Wharf (London)




• Eastgate Square Shopping Centre (Chester)




• Duke of York Square (London)




• Harrogate




• Knightsbridge (London)




• New Bond Street (London)




• Richmond




• White City Westfield (London)