A FAMILY-owned soft furnishings firm from Co Armagh has tied up an exclusive deal with a US distributor which will help it access the $15 billion American home textiles market.
Bedeck, based in Magheralin, near Lurgan, and which is already the UK market leader in branded bed and bath linens, will see its own-brand products sold in stores across America for the first time as the result of the deal with CHF Industries.
CHF is one of the largest branded and private label manufacturers of home textiles in the US, working with iconic brands such as DKNY and Peri Home.
The partnership will also give Bedeck exclusive rights to sell CHF brands such as DKNY bed and bath products throughout its 80 stores and in-shop concessions, plus other leading retailers in Britain and Ireland.
Bedeck’s joint managing director Gary Irwin said: “This is our first link-up with a distributor and represents a major opportunity to grow revenue through the sale of both Bedeck and CHF brands.
“CHF shares our values and commitment to providing top quality, design-led products that will enhance any home. On that basis, CHF and Bedeck make for very comfortable business bedfellows.”
Fellow joint managing director Andrew Irwin added: “The time is right to take the Bedeck brand to a global audience.
“Still headquartered in Magheralin, where our grandfather began the business in 1951 making linen handkerchiefs, Bedeck has evolved into the design and global sourcing of home textiles.
"Our ethos is still focused on beautiful design and quality products, and we believe that the Bedeck story and legacy will be of particular appeal to US consumers.”
The partnership includes all major home textile items for the home, including bedding, bath and window fashions.
CHF president Spencer Foley said: “We're proud to bring these great Irish bedlinen brands to the US market, where we know consumers will appreciate authentic Irish design and beautiful patterns to adorn their homes.
“The global artistry represented in Bedeck designs is a natural complement to our strong portfolio of lifestyle brands, offering consumers even more choices for every room in their homes.”
Bedeck, which creates product and design for a wide range of brands including V&A, Joules, Sanderson and Harlequin, employs 350 people, including 100 at its Magheralin head office, distribution centre and design studio.
