Bridal designer steps out in Japan
Birmingham-based bridal wear brand Rachel Simpson is making its mark on Japanese weddings, with the company now selling its products across Japan.
Simpson established the brand ten years ago after studying footwear design at university.
After spotting a gap in the market for less-traditional bridal shoes, she set up a workshop in her garden to start producing her unique looks.
The brand, which designs all of its products in the UK, now has a collection that incorporates occasion and evening shoes as well as handbags.
Simpson initially started working with the Department for International Trade (DIT) in 2010 and has since received support to attend two bridal wear trade shows – Bridal Week in Barcelona and Interbride in Dusseldorf.
By providing the business with international exposure, it has helped it secure 18 new business deals Europe and now in Japan, increasing annual turnover to £1.2million.
The business started exploring opportunities in Japan after noticing the growing demand for western-style wedding ceremonies in the country.
Selling to Japan is just the latest step in the brand’s export journey. Alongside its Kings Norton showroom, it has an international website, with stockists across Europe, the Americas, Japan, New Zealand and Australia now selling Rachel Simpson stock.
Simpson, said: “It’s so exciting that my shoes and accessories are now part of weddings taking place as far away as Tokyo. Seeing my business grow in this way makes me realise how far it has come from when I first started out.
“DIT’s support has been invaluable. From funding our trip to the trade shows to finalising the documents we needed to make it all happen, it’s been incredibly helpful knowing that support is available. I am positive that if we can do it, other businesses can as well.”
Ian Harrison, head of exports for the Midlands at DIT, said: “There is a global appetite for luxury and quality British goods, and Rachel Simpson is a great example of a business that has made the most of this – first in Europe and now further afield.
“Exporting does not come without its complexities – translations, finding the right suppliers or meeting the right contacts being just some of them. We have a number of International Trade Advisers on the ground in the West Midlands who are here to support aspiring businesses as they learn more about new markets. We also hold a number of workshops and events that are built to find solutions to businesses’ concerns when it comes to exporting.”
