World Cup shirt deal for NI firm

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster pictured with Karl Dunkley from Grosvenor Shirts

Northern Ireland's footballers may have failed in their valiant efforts to make it to next summer's sporting jamboree but a company from Strabane has ensured at least some local benefit from the World Cup.

Grosvenor Shirts has signed a licence agreement with FIFA to make luxury formal shirts with different designs for each of the 32 qualifying countries.

Grosvenor is one of Northern Ireland's few remaining shirt companies, in what was once a thriving sector.

It has survived by targeting the top end of the market and founder and managing director, Karl Dunkley, said the FIFA agreement is part of that strategy.

"It fits with our plans to develop franchisee initiatives on a global basis," he added.

"We have successfully established our brand in the competitive London fashion market and are keen to establish the brand internationally."

Diversification

The tie-up with FIFA is being supported by Invest Northern Ireland who will help the firm enhance manufacturing capability at its Strabane factory and assist with marketing.

NI Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said the deal demonstrates that local manufacturing can still thrive with the right focus.

"The local textiles sector has faced many difficulties over the past decade, but Grosvenor Shirts' focus on quality products, strong design and branding, and diversification has allowed it to retain market share," Mrs Foster said.

"Grosvenor has also developed a strong partnership with Invest NI which has helped the company to achieve such success."