Member News
A North East menswear company is celebrating the success of its newest store, one year after opening.
Master Debonair opened its third branch in Sunderland at the historic Mackies Corner in 2021, and has seen the shop go from strength to strength.
The store has just marked its first anniversary in the city and according to co-founders and business partners, Simon Whitaker and Eve Middlemiss, the response to date has repaid their belief that Sunderland city centre was a “great location”.
The co-founders opened their first Master Debonair opened at Station Terrace, East Boldon six years ago and since then have also launched a store in Chesterfield.
Visitors to the Sunderland store get the opportunity to use the private showroom which they enter through a “Narnia-like” wardrobe door, while the Boldon shop features everything from lamps with multiple shades to upside down desks.
Eve commented: “It’s a landmark year for us and we are really delighted so far with the response to Sunderland, which is our most recently opened store. Master Debonair offers such a unique experience that we have people travelling to us from all over the country.
“We have one customer who travels regularly from Plymouth, just so he can buy directly from the shop.”
With the emphasis on “classic style”, the shops have also found that they have customers from a much wider demographic.
Eve continued: “We have everyone from toddlers to customers in their 80s. They appreciate looks that don’t go out of fashion and are also great for special occasions, including everything from weddings to race days, proms and nights out. It’s not just about looking good, it’s about using clothes to help people build their self confidence.”
The company has also developed its strong online presence, which again brings in customers worldwide, helping customers with their styling to create an overall look.
Simon added: “Everyone has faced some of the most challenging times retail has ever known in the last few years. But we are delighted that Master Debonair is going from strength to strength and we want to thank all of our customers for shopping with us and look forward to welcoming many more.”
