Fancy dress retailer poised for major expansion

Yorkshire-headquartered fancy dress retailer, Smiffys, has embarked on a strategic expansion programme and is finalising setting up a store in Leeds city centre.

Retail specialist law firm, Gordons, has been appointed to advise on the rollout of additional branches.

Gordons has so far advised on lease negotiations for stores in Newcastle, Oxford and Headingley. Along with the Leeds city store, these will add to the retailer’s existing shop in Liverpool.

Established in 1894, Smiffys has more than 2,000 stockists worldwide and distribution centres in the UK, Poland, Australia, USA and China.

It currently supplies more than 7,000 products to retailers in 42 countries, as well as direct to consumer via its website.

Headquartered in its 13,000 sq ft creative hub in Leeds, Smiffys employs more than 200 people globally.

The business’s director, Elliott Peckett, said: “Our strategic growth plan involves both UK and overseas expansion. Within the UK, there is a significant opportunity for us to expand our retail store network.

“We hired Gordons as the firm has proven experience of successfully acting for fast growing retail brands implementing store rollouts. They will continue to play an important role as we further expand our store portfolio.”

Gordons commercial property partner, James Kimberley, said: “Smiffys’ decision to complement its direct-to-consumer business with bricks and mortar stores in places with strong demand for fancy dress, particularly from students, is a smart move.

“It further enhances the retail experience while providing a platform for additional sales. We look forward playing our part in in helping the company continue to expand throughout the UK.”