Situated in Church Square, the store is part of a highly successful retail franchise and supplies uniforms to dozens of local schools, dance groups, Scout and Brownie groups.

Paul Gelernter, who owns the franchise with wife Linda, commented on the day: 'It was a really successful day. We've had a jazz band outside the store, face painting for the kids - and the staff - and been generally having a good time. We've had an excellent first year's trading and we hope to continue in the same vein.'

Paul and Linda became National Schoolwear Centres franchisees following their own experiences buying schoolwear for their children. 'Before becoming franchisees we'd had horrendous experiences at traditional outfitters where everything was opposed to modern retailing with bad service, lack of stock and no space,' Paul confirms. 'We left thinking there must be a company that can do better.

'I wanted to be my own boss and quickly decided I wanted a retail business in schoolwear. National Schoolwear Centres is a modern outfit with a captive audience. The directors are very passionate about the business with the same principles of customer service as us. This business is such fun - we love supporting the local schools and parents with all their schoolwear needs and to be honest, we've had nothing but appreciation from everyone who comes into the store.'

Published: 30 June 2006

Back to news