Crew Clothing warns on consumer confidence as profit stalls

Crew Clothing has issued a warning that it may face a significant decline in consumer confidence, as the company recorded stagnant profits last year. The high street clothing retailer anticipates a potential decrease in spending due to rising inflation concerns caused by the ongoing Iran war. In a statement, the company acknowledged that while consumers have demonstrated resilience in the past, they remain aware of the potential slowdown in consumer spending, attributed to the escalating cost of living and economic pressures.

Despite a 20% surge in turnover to £151 million in 2025, Crew Clothing's pre-tax profit remained steady at £25.5 million. The rise in cost of sales, which increased by 8% to £44 million, contributed to this stagnation. The firm's online platform outperformed its brick-and-mortar stores, with online sales growing by 30%, compared to 21% growth in its physical locations. The company attributes the summer's soaring temperatures to the shift in consumer behavior, as shoppers avoided high streets in favor of online retailers.

Crew Clothing, often referred to as "Middle England's Ralph Lauren," has called upon the government to support struggling high street businesses during the upcoming Budget. Former CEO David Butler, who described the retailer as a representation of middle-class consumers, had planned to establish new stores in market towns and coastal areas.

Retailers have urged the government to reverse recent increases in employer national insurance contributions and the minimum wage, arguing that these measures will aid in hiring more young workers.