The managing-director of fashion giant Whispering Smith says the company’s move to a new Manchester headquarters is evidence of the business staying true to its roots.
Rohil Kumar said Whispering Smith, the UK’s largest importer, wholesaler and distributor of fashion clothing, is planning to write a new chapter in its legacy, and wants to expand their team at its new head office on 274 Deansgate.
Already a worldwide leader in design, production and delivery, the firm is a third generation global business which supplies top retail and ecommerce names.
Whispering Smith also has its own portfolio of brands, including Brave Soul, Good for Nothing and Night Addict. But having outgrown its original HQ on Great Ducie Street, the business is now trading from the heart of Manchester City Centre in a new five-storey, 23,688 sq ft Deansgate base which it acquired for £6.35 million.
Commenting on the move, Mr Kumar said: “After occupying our previous premises for almost 30 years, we realised that in order to keep up with Manchester’s ever-changing landscape, we needed to relocate to the heart of the city. Our relocation is a testament to our commitment to Manchester’s growth, and our investment reflects this promise.
“This site offers many benefits, not least superb transport links for the buyers we work with couple with the buzz of a city-centre life which will help add to the vibrancy behind our brands.
“But, most importantly, we are now in the heart of Manchester, which remains at the centre of England’s textile industry, and which has played a vital role in the industrial revolution. With its strong foundations, we believe Manchester remains the epicentre of the UK fashion industry. And, crucially, Manchester is where our family’s legacy began and it’s why this great city will continue to be the base of our global operations.”
Currently employing about 70 members of staff, Mr Kumar confirmed Whispering Smith has aspirations of growing even further employees in the next two-to-five years.
“We see opportunities for growth in strategic partnerships for our brands, Mr Kumar said. “We plan to expand the team in HQ in the areas of marketing and branding to support this.
“The industry has undergone significant changes since Brexit and Covid. There have also been many disruptors that have either faded away or are still present. But I believe the market is slowly adjusting itself, and we continue to have a positive outlook for the future.”
Explaining what will be happening at their old site, Mr Kumar said plans were in place for the site to be developed as part of Manchester City Council’s wider scheme for the regeneration in and around the area.