Continental Textiles beefs up web presence

FASHION and accessories firm Continental Textiles is expanding its internet presence as it celebrates its 60th year.

The family-owned company’s latest website, selling UK-made fleece jackets, will go live for the autumn/winter season.

It follows the launch earlier this year of a website selling Continental’s South Beach swimwear directly to consumers.

The range is also available in shops across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and online through retailers including Tesco, ASOS, Figleaves and New Look.

Continental Textiles, which has annual sales of around £7m, was established in 1953 by Lily and the late Franz Crewe as an importer and distributor of Italian silk scarves. Today it is led by their son Andy, 64. Andy’s son Jonathan, 32, is a director and the third generation of the family to be involved in the business.

The business employs 25 staff and is based on the Longford Trading Estate, Stretford. It sells clothing, fashion accessories and swimwear to chain stores, wholesalers and independent retailers. Its brands include Pistachio, Bruno Galli, Nifty, Affections and Jack and Joe.

Jonathan Crewe said: “We are proud to reach our 60th birthday – it’s a great achievement for everyone involved with the business.
“As we celebrate this milestone we are also focusing on the future, and internet retailing is a big part of our strategy for the coming years.”

The business is being advised on its strategy by accountancy firm Hurst. Partner Mike Jackson said: “The approach to internet trading is an issue which has been challenging our client base in recent years, as domestic retail markets become more and more stagnant. Continental Textiles is meeting this challenge head-on by developing its own brands which appeal to international as well as UK markets.”