Product details

This case describes the growth and development of a leading clothing, home furnishings and related products group from its origins in 1953 until 1996. Over this period the business grew from a home based husband and wife concern to an international group whose brand name Laura Ashley was recognised around the world and regarded by many as the group''s major asset. The case begins with a short account of the Laura Ashley''s development to 1985 when it became a quoted UK public company. The company''s ambitious expansion plans and the difficulties it faced in the late 1980s and early 1990s are then described. A new CEO was appointed in September 1991 but despite the changes he implemented the group continued to struggle and he resigned in April 1994. In June 1995 Ann Iverson was appointed CEO. Her aim was to re-establish a ''retail culture'' and a strong unified look across the group''s product range. The case concludes with a summary of her assessment of the business and her proposals for returning the group to a satisfactory level of performance within three years. The early results seemed promising.