First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness have officially opened a shirt store in India which is operated by Castledawson-based company, Savile Row.
The ministers, who are leading a trade mission to India, visited the new 40 Savile Row store at Delhi’s leading fashion outlet SBJ, House of Luxury, which is one of India’s leading fashion retailers.
Mr Robinson said: “It wasn’t that long ago that Northern Ireland was one of Europe’s leading garment manufacturers and it is good to see that some of the great brands, such as 40 Savile Row, have developed an alternate business model which enables them to still grow their business in an ever increasing competitive commercial environment.
“Supporting innovation has been a key tenet of the Northern Ireland Executive’s Programme for Government and helping companies like 40 Savile Row change their business model to compete in the global market will help to grow their business and exports.”
Mr McGuinness said it was a tremendous achievement for the Castledawson company to achieve a world-class reputation for their clothing.
“The company is now a leading global fashion brand and is now franchising its brand in India, Japan, Malaysia and South Africa as well as many other markets,” he said.
“This type of business relationship helps to grow businesses and employ skilled people in both India and at home.” Jeffrey Doltis, owner, 40 Savile Row, who welcomed the ministers to the new store, said: “This is still a family business and my family have had tremendous support from the Northern Ireland Executive.
“They have helped a small niche business to evolve as the world has changed. This has included helping us find local partners in India. We are optimistic about the opportunities for significant growth and Mr Mehra and I are proud to host the ministers today.”