JOE DAVIES LAUNCHES NEW FASHION BRAND SUGARLANE Following the exciting growth in fashion, accessories and jewellery in the giftware trade, Joe Davies has launched a completely new fashion brand concept with a sustainable twist for independent retailers. SugarLane made its debut at NEC Spring Fair with a smart casual range developed for Spring/Summer and a taster of what’s to come for Autumn/Winter. The company has invested in a complete retail solution perfect for independent customers eager to try fashion. The brand and all the designs have been exclusively developed in house and SugarLane is only available from Joe Davies. The entire collection has been developed by Beverley Allen, who was appointed as fashion buying consultant last year. Beverley, whose previous experience includes roles with Bravissimo and George Clothing, commented, “It’s great to be able to get involved right at the start of an exciting project like this. SugarLane is a commercial collection of ladies’ fashion garments, with practical size solutions to fit most. The idea was to bring together a range that would be designed in the UK, exclusive, unique and created with our planet in mind”. Bev explains, “Wherever possible our polyesters are made from recycled plastics, and we are working with our partners to source our natural fabrics responsibly, everything is ethically sourced.” Paul Hooker, Commercial Director, said, “For some time fashion has been an area we have wanted to explore. It sits perfectly with our Equilibrium Jewellery and accessory offer which has enjoyed huge growth. Everything will be available Little & Often”. Every SugarLane garment features its own swing tag highlighting elements related to fabric, design and sustainability. www.joedavies.co.uk STRATHBERRY SECURES £8MILLION INVESTMENT FROM BGF Scottish accessories brand Strathberry has announced a partnership with the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor, BGF, after securing an £8 million investment to support its future growth plans. Founded in 2013 by Guy and Leeanne Hundleby, Strathberry is known for skilfully crafted handbags and accessories. With instantly recognisable designs and exceptional attention to detail, the brand has gained a global following on high streets, catwalks and with key influencers and celebrities alike. The funding from BGF will help Strathberry significantly develop into new product categories, enhance its e-commerce capabilities and grow internationally with its own stores, retail partners and e-commerce channels. This is a new and exciting chapter for the family-run company, which will see founders Guy and Leeanne still deeply involved in every aspect of the business and actively leading Strathberry with the same passion and expertise that inspired them to create the brand in 2013. Guy and Leeanne Hundleby, co-founders of Strathberry, said: “Right from the start, BGF has shown a real desire to support our growth plans and invest in the business to accelerate what has been built to date. The whole team is incredibly excited about the future opportunityand we look forward to working in partnership with the BGF team.” Euan Baxter, investor at BGF, said: “We are particularly attracted to the authenticity of the brand and the loyal following that Strathberry has built. It’s clear that through amazing product and customer service, Strathberry has a deep relationship with its customers and is primed for widespread growth both domestically and internationally. We look forward to helping the team scale their business even further.” www.strathberry.com 98
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