Former Kendal retailer Jules B enters administration

Former Kendal retailer Jules B enters administration and sold <i>(Image: Tom Cockburn)</i>
Former Kendal retailer Jules B enters administration and sold (Image: Tom Cockburn)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

Independent fashion retailer Jules B - which had a presence in Kendal for over two decades - has been sold after entering administration.

The Jules B Menswear and Ladieswear stores - which sat opposite each other at 42-44 Finkle Street, and 2-6 Stramongate - closed their doors to customers in November, announcing the brand would pivot online due to "challenging economic climate, and the sharp rise in operating and labour costs".

The retailer, which also has shops in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, was forced to bring in administrators this month with Steven Ross and Allan Kelly of FRP Advisory appointed on February 17, 2026.

A statement from administrators says the business "was no longer financially sustainable in its current form."

Jules B owner Julian Blades told Drapers the move was taken to protect the company's future after “two extremely difficult years” marked by external pressures.

A sale has now been secured for the company, rescuing the jobs of all 25 employees currently on the payroll.

Speaking in November, Mr Blades said that he had hoped the store could return to Kendal one day in the future.

Mr Blades stated: “We hope that, when the economy improves, we’ll once again be able to serve the good people of Kendal.

“In the meantime, we are truly grateful for the friendship and support the town has shown us.”

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos