J Simons in hunt for investors
- Published: 08 March 2008 12:42
- Last Updated: 11 March 2008 12:43
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J Simons, the classic men's Americana retailer in London's Covent Garden, is seeking investment in a bid to stave off closure.
Established in 1981, J Simons specialises in Ivy League-style clothing from brands such as Brooks Brothers and J Press, alongside Harrington jackets by Baracuta and a selection of footwear and accessories.
The lease at the Russell Street store expires in June 2009, and owner John Simons said that unless there was a change of circumstances the shop would close. "The future looks uncertain. If someone is interested in investing and then opening a few more branches, we would be very interested in talking to them. I would be willing to stay on as an adviser."
Simons and his former business partner Jeff Kwintner opened The Ivy Shop in 1961 in Richmond upon Thames in Surrey, followed by The Squire Shop on Brewer Street in Soho in 1969. The pair also owned The Village Gate shops in Old Compton Street in Soho, and King's Road in Chelsea, before Simons opened J Simons.
