Dressing our men for 57 years

AS A family of costumiers and garment makers, men’s clothing has always been their niche.

Two generations of Magans have made their mark in the men’s fashion industry in Zimbabwe over a period of 57 years.

Savilles, a men’s clothing store in Harare, has withstood the test of time and promoted locally made goods, boosting the textiles industry.

Savilles Private Limited only has one branch and has been located in the same area since 1960. It was established by the late Mr Jackison Magan and is now run by his son, Mr Pravin Magan.

Mr Magan said the quality of fabric used in their clothing was exceptional. “Over the years we have had many challenges. Initially we used to import 90 percent of our materials from the United Kingdom and the United States because not many manufacturers made clothing here.

“However, sanctions came into play, and we could not be supplied goods from out there, therefore we had to buy whatever was processed locally. I would say 90 percent of our products are now made locally so we still prefer locally made goods because the quality is good,” he said.

Mr Magan believes Savilles — which is known for its quality suits, shirts, trousers, ties and belts — has survived this long because of its personal approach to customers.

“We attend to each and every one of our customer on a personal basis and survive because we have permanent customers. We are slightly expensive, but that is because we are still trying to maintain quality,” said Mr Magan. Many clothing companies have closed shop as a result of cheap imported clothes and fabrics, and the rebound of the cotton sector can only be good news for the tens of thousands of Zimbabweans who depend on the integrated industry for their sustenance.

However, for 57 years, Savilles has weathered the storms, making shirts under the Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation franchise.