Edinburgh based fashion label Islander plans to open its first store in London next year. This move comes after strong sales growth that boosted the companys turnover to millions in just three years with help from Bank of Scotland.
Rapid Rise from Scottish Roots
Islander started in 2010 when founder Pei Ferguson launched the brand to mix modern styles with old Scottish fabrics. The company began as Snow Paw UK and changed its name to Islander in 2020 to match its growing focus on island inspired designs. After tough times during the Covid pandemic the business bounced back fast. It went from six workers to 55 in a short time and aims to hire at least 70 more over the next three years.
This quick expansion shows how the brand taps into the love for unique Scottish items. Sales jumped thanks to online orders and wholesale deals especially in the United States where 150 stores carry Islander goods. Tartan patterns and Harris Tweed pieces sell well there drawing fans of authentic crafts. The companys turnover hit multi million pounds recently proving that blending heritage with fresh looks pays off.
Bank of Scotland Fuels the Expansion
Financial backing from Bank of Scotland has been a big part of Islanders success story. The bank helped cut costs on card payments by about 40000 pounds each year through its Cardnet service. This saved money let the team grow its warehouse in Sighthill and handle more orders without stress.
Switching to the banks online platform also made payroll easier for the 55 staff members. Payments now run on autopilot so Ferguson can spend time on big plans like the London launch. The bank even works with the company on a program to offer electric cars to employees at lower costs through salary deals. Such support highlights how local banks help small brands go global in tough markets.
Experts say this kind of partnership is key for fashion startups facing high rents and supply chain issues. Recent events like rising material costs from global trade shifts make these savings even more vital. Islanders smart moves show a clear path for other UK labels aiming to expand.
Signature Products and Hands On Experiences
At the heart of Islander are its handbags footwear and accessories made from famous Harris Tweed. This wool fabric comes only from the Outer Hebrides islands and each piece tells a story of skilled weavers. The brand has an exclusive deal to use this material turning it into stylish items that appeal to both locals and tourists.
Customers love the mini satchel handbags that mix tradition with everyday use. Prices start around 42 pounds for small versions making them affordable yet premium. The collection includes totes duffels and crossbody bags all crafted with care.
What sets Islander apart are its workshops where visitors make their own mini handbag in just one hour. Started three years ago in a small room above a shop these sessions now run in five spots across Edinburgh. People pick fabrics add personal touches and leave with a custom piece. This hands on fun has become a top draw pulling in crowds and boosting brand loyalty.
- Key product highlights:
- Mini Envelope Satchel: Compact design for daily carry priced at 42 pounds.
- Arran Tote: Spacious bag with tweed accents around 55 pounds.
- Mini Duffel: Versatile option for travel or work at 55 pounds.
- Footwear line: Comfortable shoes blending tweed with modern soles.
New Stores and Broader Horizons
Islander already runs eight shops in Edinburgh and one in St Andrews drawing shoppers to its charming spots like the flagship on West Bow. The first store opened on Victoria Street a busy tourist area that helped build a loyal base. Now the brand steps south with a London outlet set for early 2026 creating new jobs and reaching fashion lovers in the capital.
Alongside this the company launched Baa Baa Sheep a fun store in Edinburgh focused on sheep themed goods. It sells knitwear toys ornaments and home items celebrating Scotlands wool heritage. This ties in with a partnership from Erin Knitwear and plans call for more such spots in the city.
| Growth Milestone | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Staff Increase | From 6 post Covid to 55 now aiming for 70 | More production and better service |
| Store Count | 8 in Edinburgh 1 in St Andrews plus London soon | Wider reach and job creation |
| Turnover Surge | Multi millions in three years | Funds for warehouse and new tech |
| Wholesale Partners | 150 in US | Strong export sales of tweed items |
Looking ahead Ferguson dreams of a New York store but wants to nail London first for easier oversight. This step by step plan mirrors other Scottish brands that grew big like those in whisky or cashmere. With trends favoring sustainable local materials Islander sits well for future wins. The expansion also ties into UK fashions push for eco friendly goods as shoppers seek items with real stories.
Readers if you love unique fashion or Scottish crafts share your thoughts in the comments below. Have you tried a Harris Tweed bag or visited an Islander workshop? Tell us and spread the word to friends who might enjoy this rising brands journey.
