Charles Tyrwhitt expands business in the Middle East

Following the successful opening of the shop-in-shop within Harvey Nichols, Dubai, in March, the first Charles Tyrwhitt franchise store will roll out in October and at least eight more locations are planned across the Middle East.

Jashanmal is well established within the Middle East, representing a range of brands including Burberry and Calvin Klein Underwear. "They are ideal partners for us," says Beverly Hill, Director of Wholesale and Licensing for Charles Tyrwhitt. "Jashanmal is well respected in its region, and can help a brand reach its full potential whilst safeguarding its brand values."

Jashanmal has been trading since 1919, and currently enjoys a turnover of US$400m.

While Charles Tyrwhitt's heritage is in men's shirts, ties and cufflinks, Jashanmal were also attracted by the brand's plans to broaden the menswear offering with sportswear and increase the women's collection.

"We have always been confident that our retail model translates internationally, and our association with Jashanmal only serves to endorse this. Our plans are to replicate this partnership in other strategic territories," says Ashley Potter, MD of Charles Tyrwhitt.

Charles Tyrwhitt is continuing to enjoy strong growth: year end September 2005 saw an 18% increase in sales to over GBP40 million. Sales for 2006 are set to be in excess of GBP50 million after a successful year in which the company opened a second flagship store in Manhattan.

"Our intention is to make Charles Tyrwhitt a global brand, and we are well on the way to achieving this goal," says Beverly Hill, Director of Wholesale and Licensing for Charles Tyrwhitt.