Joules

Joules is a British lifestyle clothing brand from Market Harborough, founded by Tom Joule and rescued from administration in December 2022 by a joint venture between Next plc and Tom Joule.

What is Joules?

Joules is a British clothing and lifestyle brand known for colourful, print-led womenswear, children's clothing and accessories with a country-inspired identity.

History

Wikipedia notes that the business began as Joule & Sons, set up in 1977 by Ian Joule, and that Tom Joule took it over in 1989. The company rebranded as Joules in 1994, launched its first own-name clothing collection in 1999 and opened its first store in Market Harborough in 2000. Little Joule and Baby Joule launched around 2008 and 2009, and the company listed on the Alternative Investment Market in 2016. Tom Joule left in 2019 as creative and product duties were handed to others.

Ownership

Joules entered administration in November 2022. In December 2022 Next entered a joint venture with Tom Joule to buy the Joules Group out of administration for £34 million, with Tom Joule retaining 26% of the equity. Nineteen stores closed in the process. Wikipedia lists Next plc as the parent company.

Business model and distribution

Joules sells through its own stores, e-commerce and wholesale. Wikipedia reports 56 stores in 2026, including 11 outlets, and a new flagship in Market Harborough.

Why it matters

Joules is among several UK brands, including Cath Kidston and FatFace in the same period, that Next has absorbed or partnered with, strengthening its position as a multi-brand platform.

Frequently asked questions

Who owns Joules?

Next plc is the parent company of Joules. It acquired the business with founder Tom Joule out of administration in December 2022 for £34 million, and Tom Joule retained 26% of the equity.

Where is Joules from?

Joules is a British brand based in Market Harborough, England, where it opened its first store in 2000.

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