Have you ever walked past a familiar store only to find its doors shut for good? In 2025, many UK shoppers are asking this as Beaverbrooks, a well-known high street jeweller, announces the closure of seven of its branches.
The company, known for its luxurious jewellery and watches, has cited financial pressures and commercial viability for this decision. As the retail landscape continues to shift, this development reflects broader industry trends affecting businesses nationwide.
Here’s everything you need to know about the closures, the reasons behind them, and what lies ahead for Beaverbrooks.
What is Beaverbrooks?
Beaverbrooks is a British jewellery retailer that has been a trusted name on the high street for over a century. Known for its diamonds, watches, and fine jewellery collections, the company has built a strong reputation for quality and customer service.
It operates nearly 90 stores across the UK and caters to a wide range of consumers looking for engagement rings, gifts, or personal treats.
The company’s legacy dates back to 1919, and it has evolved into one of the most respected jewellery retailers in the UK. Despite market challenges, Beaverbrooks remains family-run and has maintained its values around trust, quality, and customer experience.
Who is the Owner of Beaverbrooks?
Beaverbrooks is a privately owned family business. The Adlestone family has maintained ownership of the company since its founding in 1919 by three brothers.
Today, the leadership is still in the hands of the family, with Mark Adlestone, the grandson of one of the original founders, serving as the Chairman.
Anna Blackburn currently serves as the Managing Director and has been instrumental in navigating the company through modern retail challenges.
The company’s continued success and resilience are largely credited to its consistent leadership and people-first approach, which has helped it retain its reputation over the decades.
This management structure allows for long-term planning and personalised strategies not always possible in corporately owned chains.
Are Goldsmiths and Beaverbrooks the Same Company?
No, Goldsmiths and Beaverbrooks are entirely separate companies. While both are established jewellery retailers in the UK with similar product offerings, their ownership and operational structures differ significantly.
Beaverbrooks is a family-owned business, independently operated and known for its strong internal values and loyalty-driven leadership.
In contrast, Goldsmiths is part of the Watches of Switzerland Group, which operates a range of high-end watch and jewellery brands both in the UK and internationally.
Although the two may appear similar on the surface, both retailing premium jewellery, offering bridal collections, and operating from high street locations, they compete in the same market rather than collaborate.
This distinction is crucial when discussing market positioning and company responses to retail pressures like inflation and consumer shifts.
Why Is Beaverbrooks Closing Stores Across the UK?
Beaverbrooks’ decision to close seven stores in 2025 stems from a detailed business review which concluded that certain branches were “no longer commercially viable.”
This means that despite the stores’ long-standing presence, they could no longer sustain profitability under the current economic conditions.
Several key factors contributed to this decision:
- Rising operational costs, including increased staff wages
- Higher property refurbishment and maintenance expenses
- Shifting consumer shopping habits toward online platforms
- Inflationary pressures impacting both retailers and customers
- Decline in high street footfall in specific locations
The closures are part of a larger trend across the retail industry where businesses are reassessing their physical footprints.
Instead of maintaining underperforming locations, companies like Beaverbrooks are choosing to consolidate, reinvest in stronger markets, and focus more on digital engagement.
Which Beaverbrooks Locations Have Closed and When Did It Happen?
Seven Beaverbrooks stores have permanently shut their doors between March and April 2025. These closures span both England and Scotland and follow a strict schedule planned after careful financial review.
Here is a detailed table showing the closed store locations and their last operating days:
| Store Location | Closure Date |
| East Kilbride, Scotland | March 16, 2025 |
| Dundee, Scotland | March 16, 2025 |
| Birmingham Fort | March 23, 2025 |
| High Wycombe | March 23, 2025 |
| Huddersfield | April 5, 2025 |
| Croydon | April 6, 2025 |
| Sutton Coldfield | April 6, 2025 |
Some of these stores, including Croydon and Huddersfield, hosted large closing-down sales with discounts of up to 50% on jewellery and watches to help clear stock and provide final value to customers.
How Is Beaverbrooks Supporting Employees Affected by These Closures?
Beaverbrooks is taking proactive steps to support its employees following the 2025 store closures. True to its values, the company is handling the transition with care, clarity, and compassion.
People-first Culture and Communication
Beaverbrooks ensured that closure news was delivered face-to-face by directors, showing respect and a commitment to open, honest communication during a difficult time.
Reallocation and Career Support
The company is offering roles at nearby stores where possible and providing personalised career guidance to help affected employees transition smoothly, with both practical and emotional support.
This careful handling of staff displacement aligns with Beaverbrooks’ long-standing reputation for maintaining employee trust and loyalty.
Is This the End for Beaverbrooks or a Strategic Reshuffle?
Despite the closures, this is not the end for Beaverbrooks. In fact, the company is actively investing in new opportunities, including the opening of a new store in Harrogate, scheduled for later this year.
Some existing branches are also undergoing modern refurbishments to align with evolving customer expectations. The closures appear to be part of a strategic reshuffle rather than a sign of decline.
As with many high street retailers, Beaverbrooks is adjusting its store network to focus on profitable locations and a stronger online presence, ensuring long-term sustainability.
What’s Next for Beaverbrooks in 2025 and Beyond?
Beaverbrooks is not pulling back but rather repositioning itself for future growth. The strategy includes investments in store refurbishments, new store openings, and improved digital infrastructure.
Here’s what lies ahead for the brand:
- New Harrogate Store Launch: Expected to open by mid-April 2025
- Store Revamps: Modernising existing locations to enhance in-store experience
- Enhanced Online Presence: Expanding e-commerce capabilities
- Customer Engagement: Increased focus on personalisation and service
| Future Strategy | Details |
| New Store Openings | Harrogate and potentially other high-footfall areas |
| E-commerce Improvements | Streamlined checkout, new features, live support |
| Renovation of Branches | Upgraded interiors, new product displays |
By focusing on profitable branches and trimming those with poor returns, Beaverbrooks aims to remain a strong player in the luxury retail market.
Are Retailers Like Beaverbrooks Being Forced to Adapt to Inflation and Rising Costs?
Yes, retailers across the UK, including Beaverbrooks, are feeling the pressure of economic challenges. The cost of running physical stores has surged, with increases in staff wages, business rates, and property costs. At the same time, online shopping trends are diverting customers away from the high street.
For Beaverbrooks, these costs directly impacted profitability even as turnover and market share remained stable. Like many others, the company had to choose between maintaining unprofitable branches or reallocating resources more effectively.
This scenario is reflective of a larger shift in UK retail, where agility, efficiency, and digital strategy are becoming critical for survival and growth.
What Have Customers Said About the Beaverbrooks Closures?
Customer reactions to the store closures have been a mix of disappointment and understanding. While many shoppers are sad to see their local stores go, others have acknowledged the reality of the changing retail environment.
Here’s a glimpse of typical sentiments:
- “It’s a real shame. I bought my engagement ring there years ago.”
- “I understand the business decision, but it’s sad for the high street.”
- “Hope the staff find new roles soon—they were always friendly and helpful.”
- “We’ll still shop online, but the store experience will be missed.”
Social media also reflected strong emotional connections to the brand. People shared memories of milestone purchases, praised the in-store staff, and expressed concern about the future of their town centres without such key retailers.
Conclusion
The closure of seven Beaverbrooks stores in 2025 marks a significant moment in the retailer’s journey, but it’s far from a downfall.
These closures represent a strategic move aimed at strengthening the brand for the future, with new openings, revamped stores, and a continued commitment to employees and customers.
As the retail industry continues to evolve, Beaverbrooks appears poised to adapt, survive, and possibly thrive in this shifting landscape.
FAQs About Beaverbrooks Store Closures
Will the Harrogate store offer the same services as the closed locations?
Yes, the Harrogate store will provide the full range of Beaverbrooks’ jewellery, watches, and in-store services.
Is it possible to redeem gift cards at other Beaverbrooks stores or online?
Yes, gift cards remain valid and can be redeemed at any open Beaverbrooks store or on their official website.
Are more store closures expected from Beaverbrooks later in 2025?
There are no official announcements about further closures at this time, and the focus is currently on growth and reinvestment.
Can customers still access warranty or repair services post-closure?
Yes, warranty and repair services continue to be available through other store locations and online customer service.
Are closing down sales being held at every shutting location?
Most closed stores had promotional sales, offering discounts of up to 50% before the final day of trading.
What is the impact of these closures on local high streets?
The closures may reduce footfall and customer traffic, affecting other nearby businesses and contributing to local economic concerns.
How do these closures compare to other jewellery retailers in the UK?
Like Beaverbrooks, several retailers have shut branches in response to rising costs and shifting consumer behaviour, reflecting a wider industry pattern.
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