Pockets, a well-known independent fashion retailer famous for outfitting the Midlands with luxury labels, is expanding south with a striking new flagship store in Bath. Officially opening on Wednesday, September 10, the boutique—named ‘Pockets Townhouse’—occupies a prestigious Grade I listed Georgian townhouse on Brock Street, situated between Bath’s iconic Circus and Royal Crescent.
Spanning three elegant floors, the new Pockets store offers expertly curated men’s and women’s collections featuring top designer names such as Moncler, Ralph Lauren, Max Mara, Dries Van Noten, Barena, and Stone Island. Many of these coveted brands are hard to find elsewhere in the city, making Pockets a distinctive destination for discerning shoppers.
Founded in 1996 by Paul Platt, Pockets has established itself as a respected name in independent retail, operating four successful stores across the Midlands with a dedicated team of 30 employees. The Bath opening not only marks the company’s first store in the South of England but also a major milestone as the brand approaches its 30th anniversary.
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“This store represents a huge step forward for us,” says Paul Platt. “Bath’s unique character and independent spirit resonate deeply with our values. Our philosophy is straightforward: deliver exceptional products alongside exceptional service in an extraordinary space that customers want to return to. I’m proud we’ve thrived for nearly three decades, especially when many of our contemporaries have closed their doors.”
This expansion comes amid a challenging economic landscape for retail. The Centre for Retail Research reports that over 13,500 shops closed in 2024, with another 14,660 predicted to shut in 2025—including Bath’s own historic department store, Jolly’s. Against this backdrop, Pockets’ bold move into Bath reaffirms its belief in the enduring appeal of brick-and-mortar retail.
“Physical stores still have unparalleled value,” Paul adds. “They offer customers the chance to feel luxurious fabrics, consult knowledgeable experts, and enjoy a personalized shopping experience that online platforms can’t match. When done right, retail spaces inspire and connect in ways the internet never will.”
The boutique’s interiors preserve the original Georgian architectural features, creating an immersive shopping environment steeped in history and elegance. Complementing the space are original artworks by Roy Osborne, known for his abstract and illusionist pieces, adding a contemporary artistic flair.
Following the recent success of its Shrewsbury expansion—which saw Pockets introduce womenswear for the first time—the Bath store continues to embrace both men’s and women’s fashion from day one. To celebrate the launch, an exclusive invitation-only event is scheduled for Thursday, September 25.