Harvey Nichols to leave the Mailbox after 25 years

Harvey Nichols is preparing to leave Birmingham after 25 years at the Mailbox.

The upmarket department store opened in 2001 and has been one of the best-known names at the canalside complex ever since. The Mailbox describes it as showcasing "over 200 of the world's most desirable brands across womenswear, menswear, beauty, food and wine".

"An exciting new chapter"

In a statement on social media, a Mailbox spokesperson said: "As Harvey Nichols prepares to leave Mailbox, we're looking ahead to an exciting new chapter."

"Mailbox continues to evolve as one of Birmingham's leading mixed-use destinations, bringing together business, leisure, hospitality and lifestyle. With several units currently under offer for 2027, the new Mailbox Business Centre opening this October and ambitious placemaking initiatives underway, we're building strong momentum for the next phase of Mailbox."

"We're actively curating a complementary mix of occupiers that will enhance Mailbox's position as a vibrant business and lifestyle destination, and look forward to sharing more details on what's to come."

Harvey Nichols has not said when the store will close or what will happen to its staff. The Mailbox and Harvey Nichols have been approached for more information.

A Birmingham landmark

The Mailbox was built in the late 1990s on the site of the city's former Royal Mail sorting office, beside the Worcester and Birmingham Canal. When it opened, with Harvey Nichols as its anchor, it was a statement of Birmingham's ambition to compete with London for luxury shopping. Over the years its mix has shifted towards offices, restaurants, hotels and leisure.

A changing high street

Department stores have been closing across the UK, as shoppers move online and costs rise. Birmingham has lost several big names from the city centre in recent years, and the Bullring and Grand Central have reshaped what shoppers expect.

The retail industry says rising employment costs, business rates and energy bills are putting stores under pressure. The British Retail Consortium has called on the Chancellor to cut the cost of doing business in the Budget on 28 October.

Banks close too

Elsewhere in the city, the Lloyds branch at 125 High Street, Harborne, was due to close on Thursday 8 October, one of 26 Lloyds and Halifax branches closing across the country this month. The bank says customers can use its app, its telephone service, Community Bankers and the Post Office for everyday banking.

What it means for shoppers

For now, the store remains open, and shoppers with gift cards or loyalty points are advised to use them before it closes. The Mailbox says new occupiers are lined up for 2027, and more details are expected in the coming months.