UK sales boost for Louise Kennedy

The fashion firm operated by designer Louise Kennedy last year enjoyed a €310,000 increase in profits due, in part, to affluent Middle Eastern and US clientele purchasing latest designs from her London store.

Ms Kennedy counts Kylie Minogue, Beyonce, and Meryl Streep as customers. Newly-filed accounts for her holding company Signum show accumulated profits last year increased by €310,000 to €1.6m.

The group operates high-end retail outlets in Dublin and London. Its cash pile more than doubled last year to €846,182.

According to a spokesperson for Signum: “The results for 2015 show growth in turnover and profitability in line with expectations, with the UK market outperforming the Irish market.”

“The most significant growth has come from the Middle Eastern and US clientele visiting the London store.

"We are seeing repeat and growing volumes from these customer lists. There has also been a noticeable improvement in sales from the Louise Kennedy scent which launched during 2014,” they added.

“Recent interim results show steady profitability despite challenges posed by a weakening pound, increasing rents in London and the cost of essential maintenance to the company’s headquarters at Merrion Square.

"A re-launch of the flagship London store has introduced the brand to new clientele,” the spokesperson said.

“The company is continuing to invest in the personal shopping experience in Dublin and London. In particular the US market is being targeted as a source of new shoppers who, it is hoped, will be positively disposed to the brand,” they added.