Phase Eight's Judith Bremner exits after 18 years
Phase Eight has confirmed Brand Director Judith Bremner will resign from her role at the end of June, after 18 years at the company.
Following a career at Max Mara and Monsoon, Bremner joined Phase Eight in 2002, when the brand was emerging, and helped grow the brand into the premium womenswear retailer known today.
During her time at Phase Eight, Bremner assisted with the launch of the brands 'Collection 8' label, featuring occasionwear, and a plus-size collection under the 'Studio 8' label.
The result is that Phase Eight now trades from approximately 600 stores and concessions in 24 countries, with international markets accounting for almost 30% of Phase Eight brand sales.
Ben Barnett, Chief Executive of TFG London, commented: “With annual brand sales in exess of £200 million, Judith has built an exceptionally loyal following throughout the UK, as well as in multiple markets across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Over Judith’s 18 years at the helm of Phase Eight, annual sales and profitability have increased ten fold – a feat that is to my knowledge unparalleled in our sector.”
Bremner will be replaced by Phase Eight's Senior Knitwear Designer Anja Thorne, who will take over as the brand launches its collections for Autumn 2020.
Thorne joined Phase Eight 10 years ago, previously working in design at Burberry, Monsoon and Arcadia Group.
Judith Bremner, Phase Eight Brand Director, responded: “The last two decades have witnessed significant change in our industry, with the inexorable rise of disposable fashion, and the seemingly inevitable decline of local service and styling in favour of inpersonal online convenience."
"It has been a pleasure to build the brand with so many talented people, and in Anja I have every confidence that Phase Eight has the design leadership to thrive in the decade ahead.”
Phase Eight is owned by parent group The Foschini Group (TFG), who first entered the UK market when it purchased the womenswear brand in 2015. The group owns Damsel in a Dress, Whistles, Phase Eight, and Studio 8.
