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Expansion of RM Williams in the United Kingdom

Expansion of RM Williams in the United Kingdom

Australian brand RM Williams is expanding its presence in the UK, opening a new store and partnering with department stores.

  • A new RM Williams store has been launched in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, marking its first store outside Australia since 2017.
  • The iconic brand will now be available in Harrods, Liberty, and Selfridges, expanding its UK footprint.
  • A further store opening is planned in Cambridge in December, indicating a robust UK expansion strategy.
  • The brand has strengthened its UK management team with the appointment of a new general manager.

RM Williams, the esteemed Australian footwear and clothing brand founded in 1932 by Reginald Murray Williams, has made significant strides in its expansion within the United Kingdom. The brand, known for its signature one-piece leather construction boots, recently opened a 1,700 square foot store in Marlow, Buckinghamshire on 10 October. This marks their first store to open outside Australia since 2017, highlighting their commitment to establishing a more significant presence in the UK.

Additionally, RM Williams has announced that its products will be stocked in renowned UK department stores Harrods, Selfridges, and Liberty. The inclusion in these prominent retail locations underscores the brand’s strategy to broaden its reach and accessibility within the competitive UK market. The brand’s CEO, Paul Grosmann, stated that the UK has been an integral part of RM Williams’ history for many decades, and the new store opening in Marlow is a testament to their continued investment in the region. Grosmann noted that Marlow’s heritage and character make it an ideal location for their handcrafted products, which are appreciated for their quality and authenticity.

Looking ahead, RM Williams is planning to open another store in Cambridge this December. This step further signifies the brand’s vigorous approach towards expanding its retail footprint in the UK. To support this growth, the company has bolstered its UK management team by hiring Karl Wederell as the UK general manager. Wederell brings experience from his previous role at the luxury apothecary brand Aesop, positioning him well to drive RM Williams’ UK strategy forward effectively.

Despite these expansions, RM Williams’ presence in the UK is not new, having operated in the region for over two decades. The brand’s initial international store opened in Knightsbridge in 1989, and it currently operates two further locations in London, specifically in New Bond Street, Mayfair, and Berwick Street, Soho. RM Williams also has a broad reach across the UK through 90 wholesale partners, showcasing their longstanding commitment to the UK market.

RM Williams’ strategic moves underline its dedication to strengthening its UK presence through strategic store openings and partnerships.