US brands expand in UK

Two US retail brands plan to expand on the UK high street despite the slowdown in consumer

spending. Urban Outfitters – with a market capitalisation of $4.9bn (£3bn) – said it will double the number of stores it has in Britain and bring new brands to our streets.

And, last week, the American designer brand Ralph Lauren signed up to bring its vintage-inspired menswear brand RRL to London. A location has not yet been disclosed, although it is sure to be in a prime retail area.

Sadly, UK luxury brand Aquascutum may quit its iconic Regent Street store as part of a restructuring plan. The proposed move is part of a series of changes to the business since it was acquired by Jaeger owner Harold Tillman less than two years ago.