Interview with Rodd & Gunn

Can you introduce yourself and tell me a little bit about your background?

My name’s Robbie and I started managing Rodd & Gunn on the Promenade in November. I have a background in retail management, mainly across sales-focused roles. Before this, I spent two years running a suit showroom, working a lot around race days, weddings, and similar events. I’ve also worked with luxury garden furniture. Retail has always been my focus, and all of my experience has been based in Cheltenham town centre, so I’m very familiar with the customer base and the type of clientele we get coming in.

I’m originally from Lincoln and I moved to Cheltenham about five, six years ago for work and my partner. So it’s just been been working full time in Cheltenham since.

How did the business start and what inspired it?

The brand’s heritage dates back to 1946, when the iconic Pointer Dog logo was established in Auckland, New Zealand. It was inspired by the natural beauty of New Zealand and the lifestyle of the time. Rodd & Gunn began as a leading lifestyle label, initially creating high-quality products such as fishing accessories and essential gear.

Today, the brand is guided by what we refer to as the “North Star” ethos, with a strong focus on sustainability, low‑impact garments, and responsible production. That ethos also shapes how we connect with our valued customers. Rodd & Gunn originally centred around fishing and shooting and that outdoors‑driven lifestyle, and it has since evolved into a more internationally recognised brand while staying true to those roots.

What have you thought of the footfall so far?

Since opening in Cheltenham in November, we went straight into the Christmas period, which was a really positive time for us. We saw strong footfall and had some exceptionally busy weeks. For me personally, it was a bit of a baptism of fire, but in a good way.

We received lots of positive feedback, and with our in‑store loyalty programme we signed up a large number of new customers, offering exclusive discounts and benefits. That’s helped encourage repeat visits, which is a big focus for us. January and February were a little quieter, as expected, but we’ve got a lot of new stock coming in and the weather is improving. With that in mind, we’re really looking forward to seeing an increase in footfall over the coming weeks.

Do you have any launches planned for 2026?

One of the big launches we’ve just had is our Trophy Range. The collection is rooted in the traditions of classic sport but has been refined for a modern lifestyle. It’s designed to work seamlessly across seasons, with every piece bridging the gap between performance and downtime. That crossover is something we focus on a lot as the brand continues to evolve beyond its traditional sporting roots and into a more blended lifestyle offering.

We launched the range this month, alongside our Spring collection, which features garments made from French linens, Good Earth cotton from Australia, and merino wool materials that are central to Rodd & Gunn’s product ethos. The main push at the moment is the Trophy Range quarter‑zips, polos, and T‑shirts, all featuring a refreshed Rodd & Gunn logo. It’s currently front and centre on the shop floor, and we’re really excited about the response so far.

What three words that you would sum up the brand?

Authentic, Timeless and Quality Driven

What would you say the biggest challenges facing businesses like Rodd and Gunn now in Cheltenham?

Like many businesses, we’re continuing to adapt to changing consumer behaviour, particularly the balance between in‑store and online purchasing. With wider economic pressures affecting everyone, the challenge is shared, but what really matters is how you respond and stand out.

Our customers expect exceptional service, and that’s reflected in the strong number of returning clients we see. When people walk through our doors, they know they’ll be welcomed, remembered, and met with genuine, positive interactions. It’s a familiar, trusted environment.

While online shopping offers convenience as we focus on creating an in‑store experience that goes beyond that one where customers can try products, build relationships, and develop their personal style with our team.

How many people work in the store?

So here at the moment we’ve got four. Myself, My Assistant Manager Jed and then we’ve got Bo and Riva and our part time as well stylists.

Rodd and Gunn’s collections are designed for the guy who is quietly confident. The man who is secure, discerning, and appreciates quality, the equally comfortable in a tailored linen blazer as he is in a casual knit sweatshirt. At Rodd & Gunn, they don’t just create high-quality menswear and accessories.

Opening Times

Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 17:30

Sunday 10:30 to 16:30