Whether it’s the retro bubble gum radio, the polka dot plates, the cutesy aprons or the floral bedspreads – it seems that Cath Kidston’s signature 1950s inspired kitsch is beating the recession – with sales and profits jumping more than 60% – proving that Cath Kidston really has become part of the fabric of British life.
Accounts filed at Companies House reveal profits have jumped from £2.9m to £4.6m in the last financial year, seeing many commentators comparing Cath Kidston to her 80s floral counterpart, Laura Ashley.
Lorna Hall, retail editor of fashion trends website WSGN is one of them saying, ”Cath Kidston is the new Laura Ashley. The brand keys into the same aesthetic, with its dreamlike nostalgia. For many women it is a way to nest, without all the hard work involved in nesting.”
Sales have grown at break-neck pace for Kidston, increasing from last year’s £19.2m to £31.3m as new stores opened around the country and the retailer made its first attempt to crack the Irish market.
To find out more about the beginnings of the Cath Kidston emporium, check out this exclusive video interview on t5m.
We’re really pleased to hear that Cath is doing well, despite the economic downturn – can you think of any businesses or brands that you wish were doing better?
