Lancashire clothing label Drake & Hutch launches crowdfunding campaign

Newly launched clothing brand Drake & Hutch has embarked on a crowdfunding campaign as it seeks to revive Britain’s once-thriving textile industry.

The company, established by Lancashire entrepreneur Pete McGuinness, has set out to raise £2,000 through digital platform Indiegogo.

Drake & Hutch already offers English-made socks but now plans to expand further with a line of Scottish-made hats, scarves and gloves.

Pete, who previously worked as a buyer, said: “I loved working in the clothing industry buying and developing for high-street labels, but I was always disappointed that despite an incredible textile history in the UK, so little clothing was made here.

“Most of our suppliers are small family-owned third or fourth generation businesses.”

He added: “We work closely with them using our design capabilities and their expertise to create high quality wardrobe staples that are made to last, providing a little bit of affordable luxury you can enjoy everyday.”

Speaking further, Pete said that regular contact with Drake & Hutch’s suppliers means he knows the clothing is made ethically, with fair wages paid to support local communities.

Pete continued: “Instead of planning by season and predicting customer needs 12 months in advance like most labels, we listen to our customers and constantly develop the range based on feedback.

“This keeps it exciting for us as everyday we are looking at ways to evolve while our customers feel more like partners.”

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