NI homewares firm in lucrative link-up to sell its products in America
A LEADING Co Armagh homeware company has landed a major contract that will open doors to the $15bn American textiles market.
Bedeck, which is based at Magheralin, has a flagship store at Linen Green in Dungannon and another on Belfast’s Lisburn Road, as well as a concession in House of Fraser at Victoria Square in the city.
The lucrative deal will put Bedeck-branded products in stores across the United States for the first time.
The company is already the UK market leader in branded bed and bath linens.
The partnership with US distributor CHF Industries will give Bedeck exclusive rights to sell CHF brands such as DKNY bed and bath products throughout its stores and in-shop concessions.
CHF is one of the largest branded and private label manufacturers of home textiles in the US.
Gary Irwin, Bedeck’s joint managing director, said: “Part- nering with CHF Industries is Bedeck’s first link-up with a distributor and represents a major opportunity to grow revenue through the sale of both Bedeck and CHF brands.
“CHF shares Bedeck’s values and commitment to providing top quality, design-led products that will enhance any home. On that basis, CHF and Bedeck make for very comfortable business bedfellows.”
Joint managing director Andrew Irwin added: “Having established Bedeck as the UK’s market leader in branded bed and bath linen, the time is right to take the Bedeck brand to a global audience.
“Still headquartered in Magheralin, where our grandfather began the business in 1951 manufacturing linen handkerchiefs, Bedeck has evolved into the design and global sourcing of home textiles.
“Our ethos is still focused on beautiful design and quality products, and we believe that the Bedeck story and legacy will be of particular appeal to US consumers.”
The partnership involves all major textile items for the home, including bedding, bath and window fashions.
Spencer Foley, president and CMO of CHF, said: “We are proud to bring these great Irish bedlinen brands to the US market where we know consumers will appreciate authentic Irish design and beautiful patterns to adorn their homes. We are excited by the opportunity to broaden Bedeck’s reach into the bath and window categories in North America as well as the United Kingdom and Ireland.” In 2013, Bedeck announced a £5m deal to produce bed and bathware for retailer Joules.