All positions have been eliminated at a beloved Yorkshire fashion retailer specialising in vintage-inspired clothing, following the official appointment of administrators and the company's abrupt closure. Joanie, an online-only B Corp based in Skipton, announced its immediate shutdown on social media earlier this week after nine years of operation, leaving its global customer base without their favourite nostalgic styles.
Administrators Confirm Redundancies and Financial Struggles
Alastair Massey and Phil Armstrong of FRP have been appointed as joint administrators of Joanie Limited, confirming that regrettably, all thirteen employees have been made redundant. The administrators are currently supporting affected staff members by providing essential information on how to make claims through the Redundancy Payments Service, while also focusing on realising the remaining assets of the business for the benefit of creditors.
Sustained Challenges Lead to Insurmountable Pressures
Despite cultivating a devoted following for its distinctive womenswear collections and strong ethical values, the business encountered persistent financial difficulties in recent years. These challenges stemmed from a combination of Brexit-related disruption, the profound impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, ongoing economic uncertainty, and increased barriers to international trade. The cumulative effect of these external factors ultimately proved too great for the independent brand to overcome.
A Legacy of Nostalgic and Sustainable Fashion
Founded in Manchester by entrepreneur Lucy Gledhill, Joanie was established with a mission to create feel-good garments infused with a touch of nostalgia, honouring Lucy's Great Auntie Joanie. The brand, which relocated its headquarters from Ardwick, Manchester, to Broughton Business Park in Skipton last year, was renowned for its retro-inspired, sustainable fashions. Its product range included vibrant knitwear and dresses featuring bright nostalgic prints, alongside successful collaborations with celebrities and institutions such as the Natural History Museum and Dawn O'Porter. The company had even expanded into footwear two years ago, broadening its appeal.
Directors' Heartfelt Statement on Social Media
In an extensive Instagram statement, the directors expressed their gratitude while citing the "challenges of recent years" as the primary reason for the closure. They acknowledged the difficulties posed by Brexit, Covid, economic uncertainty, and new tariffs and conflicts affecting international growth, each of which took a significant toll on the business. The statement extended heartfelt thanks to employees, freelancers, suppliers, partners, and loyal customers worldwide, celebrating the brand's nine-year journey as a proudly independent entity.
Alastair Massey, restructuring advisory partner at FRP and Joint Administrator of Joanie Limited, commented: "Joanie established a well-regarded brand with a loyal following, but a prolonged period of difficult trading conditions ultimately proved insurmountable. Our immediate priority is to support affected employees and to maximise realisations for the benefit of creditors." While the Joanie website remains accessible for now, orders can no longer be processed, marking the end of an era for this cherished Yorkshire fashion label.
