Massive retailer’s massive excessive road return might go away trend followers upset
Topshop closed its doors in 2021, but is now set for a comeback later this year online with a future on the high street also set in stone . . . just not how fashion fans had hoped
A former UK fashion giant is returning to the high street – but not in the way fans would want. Topshop disappeared from the British high street in 2021 after the collapse of Sir Philip Green’s Arcadia retail empire.
The brand was then acquired by ASOS and primarily focused on digital sales. However, a social media post sparked chaos among shoppers across the country with excitement at the potential return of the former fashion titan earlier this month.
In a post made on Instagram Topshop riled up fashion fanatics and simply said: “We’ll see you IRL (in real life) in August”.
But now a top Topshop boss has clarified exactly what shape that return would make – and it’s not what fans would have hoped for.
Chief executive of ASOS, which owns the Topshop brand, José Antonio Ramos Calamonte said: “The time has come to become much more present with consumers in the UK and globally. [We have spent] two years rebuilding the product assortment of Topshop.
“The first step of this comeback is topshop.com [launching in the second half of the current financial year].”
And when asked about returning to physical stores, he said: “I’m not talking about a stand-alone store. We haven’t ruled out anything. Of course not.
“We are listening to our consumers. We understand that they want Topshop to have a level of its own. We want to win by offering consumers the best possible product and that’s where we put all our energy. I feel confident we are well prepared to react to this challenge.”
Clarifying his comments, a spokesman later said the brand will return to physical retail, but as a concession in bigger stores.
The CEO also commented on battling competitors such as Shein and Temu, where clothing can be bought from China at dirt cheap prices.
He said: “Some companies are operating cheaper than us and we are still finding green shoots.”
When Topshop teased its return last month, fans flooded social media with praise and excitement.
“Mother of GOD. This is actually going to make my year,” one commenter said.
“This has to happen,” another added.
“Is it too early to start waiting outside for the opening of the physical Topshop store now? Asking for a friend.” One overjoyed customer said.
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