Shirtmaker clinches US distribution deal

An upmarket Northern Ireland shirt maker has clinched a major deal to sell its products in top class department stores across the United States, it was revealed today.

The US breakthrough by the Savile Row Company is the result of a strategic partnership with Superior Apparel in Boston, one of North America’s top clothing companies.

Jeffrey Doltis, Savile Row’s managing director said: “This is an immensely important development for us in the world’s biggest clothing marketplace.

"The agreement, which is for the supply of quality business shirts and ties, will give us access to a network of upmarket department stores throughout the US.”

He revealed that in the longer term the company would hope to develop a network of franchise stores with Superior Apparel.

Savile Row has its main administration and sales operation in the centre of London and its design office and manufacturing base is in the North.

They employ around 100 people in a range of activities including garment design, manufacturing warehousing and contact centre support for their fast growing and successful mail order service – all from Castledawson, Co Down.

The company also has a retail operation, 40 Savile Row, based in London’s garment district, that provides a bespoke tailoring service.

The US deal has been clinched with the aid of Invest Northern Ireland’s Strategic Alliance team.

Mr Doltis said the team had helped enormously by preparing the ground through detailed market research and produced a shortlist of potential partners for them to identify the most suitable.

“Superior liked our product offering and was impressed by our experience and expertise. The discussions eventually led to a partnership agreement and a substantial initial order,” he said.

Alan Hingston, Invest NI’s Trade director, welcoming the agreement, said: “An alliance with an established and successful US business is often the best way for a Northern Ireland company to access a market the size and diversity of North America.”