Williams & Griffin began trading in Colchester as an independent department store in 1963 and until March 2008, was owned by the Ireland family.

In March 2008, Fenwick acquired Williams & Griffin. Fenwick, founded in 1882, is the premier independent UK department store group with a portfolio of eleven stores. These range from full line department stores to more focused fashion and accessory offers.

Williams & Griffin continues to evolve and expand. New departments (and brands) have been launched and many refurbishments have been undertaken.

Here are some of our achievements...

1997 - a new style menswear department doubling the size of the old department

1998 - a radical refurbishment of the cosmetics department on the ground floor

2003 - a new look housewares department

2003 - refurbishment of the basement introducing a new urban style 'Quest' department for ladies and a young mens department

2004 - a refurbished restaurant to make it a vibrant area to relax in

2005 - extended body and soul dept featuring new natural organic products

2005 - a £1m refurbishment to the ladies fashion floor

2005 - a new Ralph Lauren section introduced to the menswear department

2006 - an extended body and soul department on the ground floor

2007 - a fantastic new ladies' and men's shoe department

2007 - a new sunglasses wall and refurbished gift department on the ground floor

2007 -a new MAC department in cosmetics