Wallis

Wallis is renown for its distinctive fashion handwriting and heritage as a premium brand on the UK high street. The brand operates from 134 standalone stores and 126 concessions across the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Timeline

1923
First store opens in Islington, London, founded by Raphael Nat Wallis

1935
Wallis & Co is registered as a limited company.

1948
The company opens its 25th branch.

1950
An in-house design team is created, establishing Wallis' foundations as a brand with its own distinctive handwriting.

1960
Wallis develops into a major high street fashion store chain in the UK.

1974
The brand opens its first concession in Germany.

1977
The company changes its name to Wallis Fashion Group Ltd.

1980
Wallis becomes part of the Sears Group plc.

1993
The brand's Petite Collection launches.

1995
A new concept refit programme is rolled out across the chain.

1996
Shoes are added to the Wallis ranges.

1997
Wallis' first outlet is opened in Saudi Arabia under a franchise agreement, and in South Africa by licensing agreement.

1999
Wallis joins Arcadia Group.

2002
The brand rolls out a new shopfit design nationwide.

2005
The brand launches a charity charm bracelet to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. The silver bracelet is an instant sellout and raises vital funds for research and treatment development in the fight against cancer.

2006
Limited Edition, a premium range of fashion-forward pieces, is launched and proves an instant hit with many styles selling out on the first day.

2007
Wallis follows up on the success of 2005's charm bracelet for Cancer Research UK with a new charm necklace. It brings together a number of international designers and celebrities to design charms, including Scarlett Johansson and Kate Moss.