What: John Lewis is shifting from closures to growth, modernising stores and adding high-profile fashion brands to drive recovery.

Why it is important: John Lewis’s strategy builds on recent successes in customer satisfaction and operational improvements reported in the past year.

John Lewis’s recovery marks a pivotal moment for the UK department store sector, as the retailer transitions from a period of closures and financial losses to a renewed phase of growth and innovation. Under the direction of experienced retail leadership, the company is not only halting further closures but is actively considering new store openings in previously unserved regions. Central to this revival is a bold expansion of its fashion offering, highlighted by the addition of 100 new brands and exclusive collaborations, most notably with Topshop. These partnerships are designed to reinvigorate the brand mix and attract a broader customer base. The retailer’s £800 million investment in modernising its stores, including experiential upgrades such as revamped beauty halls and VIP lounges, reflects a broader industry trend toward enhancing in-store experiences. This strategic focus on operational excellence and customer engagement has enabled John Lewis to surpass competitors in customer satisfaction, positioning it as a revitalised leader in UK retail.

IADS Notes: John Lewis’s transformation over the past year is well documented, with sources from August 2025 (“John Lewis adds 100 premium fashion brands to challenge Next and M&S,” Retail Gazette; “Despite the demise of many department stores, the format remains relevant today,” Retail Week) and September 2025 (“John Lewis revealed as Topshop’s latest UK stockist,” Press Release; “John Lewis focuses on positive momentum despite deepening losses,” Retail Week) highlighting the retailer’s addition of 100 new fashion brands, the exclusive Topshop partnership, and a comprehensive £800 million investment in store renovations and experiential retail. The relevance of the department store format is reinforced by John Lewis’s ability to maintain customer loyalty and satisfaction, as reported in August and September 2025. The approval of the Reading mixed-use development in October 2025 (“John Lewis Partnership receives green light for Reading development,” Retail Week) further illustrates the retailer’s evolving property strategy and commitment to blending retail excellence with urban regeneration.

Recovering John Lewis may open new department stores, ramps up fashion offer