Bingley based fashion retailer Damart has announced its membership of AIS (Associated Independent Stores). The partnership with AIS will be as both a supplier to retailers and a member buying brands offered through AIS, expanding the retailer’s customer base and widening Damart’s product offer with some of the UK’s leading brands.
As one of the UK and Ireland’s leading buying groups for home and fashion, Associated Independent Stores helps independent retailers thrive with collective buying power and expertise. Through its membership of AIS, Damart is offering its product range to member stores and has already secured listings with Walker & Ling in Weston-Super-Mare and Bradbeers in Hampshire and is in conversation with many more AIS members.
Alison Fisher, Trading and Merchandise Planning Director at Damart, said, “At Damart we saw a clear synergy between our offer and the customers of AIS retailers. Our AIS partnership will bring the Damart brand to a wider customer audience and occupy the space in the market for 55+ women who we believe are underserved. Full of inspiring looks, our collections feature so much more than our renowned Thermolactyl underwear. Flattering dresses, beautifully fitting blazers, comfortable cotton T-shirts, nightwear and everyday jeans are just part of our best-selling selection. We offer a wide range of sizes in a variety of leg lengths and adjustable waists for the perfect fit. And it all comes back to feeling comfortable without compromising on style.”
Damart will also expand its own offering to customers online from brands including First Avenue – AIS’ own fashion label –Totes Isotoner and more.
Additionally, ranges from First Avenue will be available in selected Damart catalogues from September. Further brand partners including Farah, Brook Taverner and Crew Clothing are also in the pipeline for this autumn.
Alyson Taggart, UK offer and publications director at Damart, said: “At Damart our customer always comes first, and we always strive to offer them choice and value in all areas. We decided to join up with AIS as we felt the brands they partner with, and their own First Avenue label, would resonate with our loyal customers and offer them more exceptional quality products that complement our own outstanding offer.”
Sue Kemp, chief executive and managing director of AIS, added: “We are thrilled Damart has become a member of AIS. Its rich history and expertise in the fashion space, paired with its continuous innovation, will be a great asset as the business continues to grow.”
