Success afoot for sock manufacturer
Birmingham-based accessories wholesaler Socks Direct has secured a six-figure funding deal to support business growth and the development of a new line of sustainable products.
The company will use the funding from Royal Bank of Scotland to finance product development including the creation of a blend of organic yarn made by recycling and combining old cotton fabric scraps and bamboo yarn. This will save millions of litres of water currently used in the production of cotton every year.
Socks Direct was founded in 2003 by Jaweed Mirza, who has 30 years of experience in the industry. He continues to run the company with the support of his wife and son, Mahayno and Khayam Mirza, who manage the finance and marketing aspects of the business.
The firm currently manufactures six different brands of products including socks, underwear and sports accessories, supplying high street retailers and online businesses both in the UK and internationally.
In 2006, Socks Direct launched its first patented sock, Easytop, a range of non-elasticated socks suitable for those with diabetes or circulation issues.
Mirza said: “I launched the business over 17 years ago and we have grown year-on-year by supplying our products to major retailers. The funding from Royal Bank of Scotland has enabled us to innovate and expand our range of materials and products, offering retailers more sustainable options to choose from.
“My wife and son have provided incredible support that has allowed us to grow the business into what it is today, and we are now looking forward to progressing our business expansion plans.”
Michael Warwood, business development director at NatWest Group, said: “Socks Direct is a great example of a family business that has continued to achieve strong results since it launched. Its commitment to tackling environmental concerns within the fashion and textile industry is a necessary endeavour and one we are proud to support. We look forward to working with Socks Direct again in the future.”
