Sock sales surge at Christmas
SOCKS are still a popular Christmas gift according to Bolton hosiery firm Drew Brady which saw sales surge in the last few months.
Drew Brady was established in the 1950s as a yarn trading company, and became a member of the Ruia Group’s hosiery division in the 1980s when they began importing socks.
Today it is an export business with customers across the world including America, Canada and most of Europe.
In the New Year it is planning to take its first steps into China with the help of UKTI and the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC).
Ruia Group director Alok Ruia said: “Socks are still a popular Christmas gift item, and we do 90% of our business between September and December. Our Heat Holders thermal range make good Christmas presents and are selling in a number of countries. The socks are especially popular in Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Germany, and we also sell to Central Europe, Poland, Russia, Chile, Argentina, America, Austria and Australia.”
Bobbie Charleston-Price, international trade adviser for UK Trade & Investment North West said: “We are happy to work with Drew Brady to help them export their range overseas. The business was already enjoying great success in the home market, but realised the great potential for continued growth and increased sales in worldwide markets.
“UKTI North West continues to work closely with Drew Brady to identify new markets, buyers and distributors, and we would encourage other businesses thinking of beginning their export journey to make it a resolution to get in touch in the New Year to see how we can help.”
