'Iconic' brand returns to high street five years after collapse with huge openingThe business collapsed into administration during the Covid pandemic, but has now made a welcome returnView Image Laura Ashley fell into administration during the pandemic (Image: shomos uddin via Getty Images)Shoppers are overjoyed with the return of a beloved brand to the UK high street. ‌The new Laura Ashley store in Essex has been attracting crowds since its opening on Friday, September 26. ‌The brand was established by Welsh designer Laura Ashley and her husband, Bernard, in London in 1953. Over the years, it became iconic, with Lady Diana being a fan of the brand during her teenage years. Heath Golden, chief of Marquee Brands, stated that the firm was "primed and ready" to rekindle Laura Ashley.