Second Hackett London store opens in South Africa

In concept, it takes its inspiration from the famous and typically British exterior of Number 10 Downing Street, creating a residential feel inspired by a traditional London townhouse using wooden panelling and black bricks. The starting point for the design focuses on the British Georgian period, particularly the style of architect Sir John Sloane whose simple and classic yet strong approach to design, reflects the very essence of Hackett. The timeless furniture and furnishings have been updated with a modern twist to provide distinctive focal points around the store.

Hackett clothing takes its inspiration from the traditions of British dress without being old-fashioned. It describes its products as "evolutionary rather than revolutionary." Hackett clothing is for men who wish to dress stylishly and to whom quality is more important than the vagaries of fashion.

Parts of the range are much the same as they were twenty years ago, but as co-founder Jeremy Hackett says, "our clothes wear in, not out." Hackett's aim is to dress men for any occasion whether for the business, formal, country or sporting contexts that are perfectly encapsulated under the strap-line 'Essential British Kit'. The 'Little Britons' range increasingly caters for the younger "man's" clothing needs.

Queen's Award for export

The group was recently awarded a 2012 Queen's Award for enterprise in international trade. This first-time accolade has been awarded to the brand for its continuous growth of export sales and overall company performance.

The Queen's Award for Enterprise is the highest accolade for business success and honours outstanding UK companies and helps encourage the development of British business at home and internationally. On the recommendation of the UK Prime Minister, the Queen approves and presents the Awards annually.

The growth has been so rapid that in the three years from 2008, Hackett's export sales grew 1500% overall, along with 200% growth in turnover. As the brand has grown, so too has the work force and the size of the company, which has successfully managed to turn its losses into profit over this time.

This increase in performance is attributed to a number of factors including a good retail performance with positive like for like sales combined with a very strong wholesale performance.

Another key factor is the successful execution of desirable sponsorship deals with leading British and international sporting and social events. It has managed to position itself within the social calendar with events such as the boat race, international polo and tennis as well as its long standing association with Aston Martin racing.

For more information, go to www.hackett.com. To view the opening event, go to http://youtu.be/35NMCLIlJgc.