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Ann Summers

In 1971 the first Ann Summers store opened in Marble Arch, by Michael Caborn-Waterfield. After the business went into voluntary liquidation, in 1972 David and Ralph Gold purchased it for £10,000. The Gold family still own the retailer, which has become known for revolutionising lingerie and adult retail through its empowering sexual approach for women. Jacqueline Gold, who became CEO in 1987, died in 2023 from breast cancer at the age of 62. The business has also faced opposition from stockists in its battle for sexual wellness as products such as sex toys, to a blank notebook entitled What Men Know About Women, have been banned from stores on the UK high street. Current stockists include Asos, Next and The Very Group.

News

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Ann Summers cuts staff safety incidents by 42% after body camera trial

Ann Summers has reported a 42% reduction in staff safety incidents following an eight-week trial of body-worn cameras, with plans to roll out the technology across additional high-risk stores.

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Ann Summers hails 'strategic progress' as full-year losses narrow

Lingerie and sex toy retailer Ann Summers has hailed a year of "resilience and strategic progress" as losses narrowed and turnover edged up for the 52 weeks to 28 June 2025.

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In pictures: Ann Summers open first Middle East store in Abu Dhabi

Lingerie and sex toy retailer Ann Summers has opened its debut standalone store in the Middle East, Drapers can reveal.

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Ann Summers rolls out body cameras to 23 stores

Lingerie and sex toy retailer Ann Summers is introducing body-worn cameras for staff in 23 of its stores nationwide following a successful eight-week trial, Drapers can reveal.

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Ann Summers bolsters expansion in the Middle East

Ann Summers has announced today (19 March) a strategic retail partnership with Liwa Trading Enterprises (Liwa), furthering its expansion in the Middle East.

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Ann Summers 'close to hiring' advisers

The Gold family, owner of Ann Summers, is reported to be “close to hiring” corporate advisory firm Interpath Advisory for a review, “which could lead to the disposal of a big stake in the chain".

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