Member Article

This North East baby clothing brand is set to expand into international markets

Clothing brand Freya Lillie has set its sights beyond the North East, following ERDF support administered by the Department for International Trade (DIT).

The three year old company, which is based in Durham City, will bring its range of natural and organic baby clothing to international markets.

Setting up the business whilst pregnant and noticing a lack of organic baby clothing on the market, founder Michelle Jones has now been provided with the opportunity to take her brand abroad following the DIT’s support.

Delivered by The North East England Chamber of Commerce, the DIT North East supports SMEs in all seven local authority areas, providing help and support to all exporters.

Michelle Jones, Founder, said: “This year, I was able to attend a trade show in London, which put me in touch with an array of international stockists.

“The idea of organic baby clothing has really taken hold in Berlin, Germany, but I’m also working in Denmark and Norway too. DIT has provided me with access to these international markets, allowing my business to grow beyond its regional roots.”

Naming Freya Lillie after her daughter, the brand now stocks clothing from newborn up until age six, with a range of rompers, dresses and pants as well as made to order clothing. All pieces are free from pesticides and fertilisers, with bamboo amongst the popular materials used.

Looking to the future, Michelle continued: “I’m hoping to take on some new employees or apprentices to enable further expansion. Whilst organic clothing may be slightly more expensive, it is proven to be sturdier than conventional materials. There’s a real future in organic clothing.”

Julie Underwood, International Trade Director, said: “Freya Lillie is a brilliant business and we are happy to be part of its development by helping broaden their international networks.

“Helping North East businesses with the ambition to succeed is a real delight and we look forward to see what the future has in store for Freya Lillie.”

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