Mature fashions leader targets new franchisees
The UK market leader in mature fashions is actively pursing expansion of its UK franchise network.
Pauline May, the country’s only dedicated manufacturer and supplier of clothing, footwear and accessories to the elderly, launched a drive to establish a nationwide franchise operation last year.
Franchise director Paul Atkinson comments: “We now have a 30-strong network of franchisees in various parts of England, Scotland and Ireland, run by both women and men - solo or as a joint operation.
“With a total of 110 franchises available throughout the UK, we would like to hear from people who may be interested in becoming part of our increasingly successful business network.”
Pauline May is based in Keighley, West Yorkshire, and is the brainchild of Pauline Sargeant, who established the business in the garage at her home in 1991 with just £1,000 savings.
She explains: “I had for long realised that clothes for older people were not as easy to find as readily available younger fashions. They were the ‘forgotten people’ and I recognised that there was a whole new market place out there.
“Over the years, the business has developed extensively as a one-stop-shop for mature ladies and gents. Our design and manufacturing process remains unique to us, as does our own non-conventional 8 to 30 sizing system, suitable for people weighing from six stones up to 36 stones.
“All manufacturing is UK-based and we make 80% of ladies wear ourselves - cardigans, jumpers, skirts, blouses, trousers and dresses, nightwear, underwear and footwear, along with dignity dresses, which have found a ready market among less able-bodied wearers.
“We also do menswear and because of the quality of our products, we are happy to offer a 100% money-back guarantee across all our ranges.”
Care homes figure prominently in Pauline May’s remit and franchisees successfully run “fashion parties” in both residential and nursing homes, as well as delivering the Pauline May mail order catalogue to private homes
Pauline Sergeant adds: “Our franchisees take into care homes what is, to all effects and purposes, a mobile shop of our products. Residents who cannot get out and about really appreciate this, while a lot of relatives who may not have time to buy clothing for their loved ones have commented on the value of our service.
“We also bring a smile to housebound people by taking our products direct into their own homes.” Paul Atkinson can be contacted on 01535-661362.