Department store group Morleys is to take over one of the sector’s most famous shops.

Morleys department store

Source: Morleys

Morleys said the store will sell exclusive product

Morleys is set to reopen the iconic Jollys store in Milsom Street, Bath, retaining the name and “bringing a revitalised shopping experience to this historic retail destination”.

Jollys, which was formerly part of Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group, had traded in Bath since 1823 but closed last month. Morleys will begin a refurbishment immediately, “with the goal of restoring Jollys to its former glory”.

The new Jollys will reopen in two phases, beginning in March next year and to be completed by October 2026.

Morleys chief executive Allan Winstanley said: “We are thrilled to be bringing Jollys back to life and to be part of the vibrant retail landscape in Bath. Our approach is to treat each of our stores as a unique independent department store, ensuring we create an exceptional shopping experience tailored to the local community. We are especially pleased to confirm that we will be keeping the Jollys name, honouring its deep-rooted legacy in the city.”

Morleys said the store will sell exclusive product, feature a “full-service beauty experience” and a “carefully curated food and beverage offering, making it an aspirational shopping destination that perfectly suits its prestigious Bath location”.

Eight-store Morleys’ branches include an eponymous shop in Brixton, Pearsons in Enfield and Camp Hopson in Newbury, where also opened a 20,000 sq ft home store last year.

Having invested £3m in a refurbishment Morleys Brixton three years ago, it will inject a similar sum in Pearsons this year.

The retailer said it is looking for more opportunities to expand its portfolio.