Long-standing Phase Eight brand director Bremner resigns

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Mar 4, 2020

Judith Bremner, who has been brand director at British womenswear brand Phase Eight for 18 years, is stepping down. Anja Thorne, currently senior knitwear designer, will take over at the end of June.

Bremner joined the business in 2002, and helped build it into the premium women’s fashion brand it is today. During her tenure, Phase Eight launched the Collection 8 occasionwear label, grew into a national brand and opened international stores in 24 countries.

She was also involved in the relaunch of the Damsel in a Dress brand following its takeover by TFG London, the same company that owns Phase Eight.

Anja Thorne will replace Brember at the launch of the autumn 20 collections, according to Retail Gazette.

“With annual brand sales in excess of £200m, Judith has built an exceptionally loyal following throughout the UK, as well as in multiple markets across Europe, the Middle East and Asia,” said TFG London chief executive Ben Barnett.

“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 added: “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 impersonal online convenience. 

“With local stores successfully maintained across the country, Phase Eight continues to stand for a different approach to retail, and one that continues to stand the test of time.”

Phase Eight was acquired by TFG London in 2015, and now forms part of a portfolio of brands that also includes Hobbs, Whistles and Damsel in a Dress and Studio 8. The company is ultimately owned by South Africa’s The Foschini Group.