Today in retail: Musical chairs at Arcadia

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Today, Topshop managing director Mary Homer announced she would leave Topshop, ending a 30 year career at one of the most famous bands in fashion retail.

Homer, after a 10-year tenure at the helm of Sir Philip Green’s flagship brand, is going to head homewares and fashion specialist The White Company.

Hers is the latest in a string of departures from Green’s Arcadia empire in recent months, including Burton managing director Wesley Taylor, Topshop retail director Craig McGregor and Miss Selfridge creative director Yasmin Yusuf. Unsuprisingly, the exits have raised eyebrows among retail watchers.

For Homer to now leave Topshop, the 620-store retailer she originally joined in 1985, to run The White Company, which has only 56 UK stores, will be taken by some as indicative of some trouble in the Arcadia ranks.

The billionaire tycoon has of course found himself in the headlines of late after his former-owned BHS collapsed into administration under new owners in questionable circumstances.

However, both Green and Homer, who oversaw Topshop’s global expansion, were adamant that her depature was amicable. Homer told Retail Week: “It was a difficult decision because Topshop is a great business.”

Speaking of exits, Prime Minister Theresa May kick-started proceedings to separate the UK from the EU by triggering Article 50.

As a reminder that the world may not end following the UK’s vote to leave the EU, we’ve put together some great examples of five UK retailers that are thriving on faraway shores. Take a look and be inspired.

Elsewhere, ailing computer game specialist Game reported a plunge profits in its half-year, reflecting a dismal six months in the games market during which there was a weak line-up of releases.

Quote of the day

“After 30 years of loyal service, Mary is leaving us. She’s achieved a lot and we’ve achieved a lot and now she’s found an opportunity somewhere different.”

– Topshop owner Sir Philip Green speaking to Retail Week about Mary Homer’s departure