Laura Brown is new CEO of Aspinal of London

Aspinal of London has announced a new CEO with the luxury leathergoods and accessories business naming Laura Brown to its top job.

Brown has a strong background in the luxury retail sector haven previously worked for some big names including London department store destination Harrods, globally famous outlet centre Bicester Village and the key Dubai Mall. 

The company said that “combined with an innovative approach to business strategy, Laura’s insight and talent is ready to play an invaluable role as Aspinal’s market presence continues to grow”.

Brown herself said she’s joining at a “pivotal time” in the firm’s journey as a British success story”. Its accelerated growth both in the UK and internationally over the past few years “has set the stage for an exciting new chapter with so much more yet to come,” she added.

And Chairman Iain Burton hailed her “years of ‘best in class’ luxury retail experience and team leadership”.

Earlier this year, the company — which has increasingly focused on its online sales — had filed accounts showing revenue grew 19% from £29.8 million in FY22 to £35.4 million in FY23. This drove its adjusted EBITDA up 32% at £7.3 million. Its operating profit rose from £4.1 million to £6.09 million and profit before tax was up from £3.7 million to £5.5 million. 

But the cost of its sales rose, as did its administrative expenses so net profit for the year dropped from £5.48 million to £4.23 million.