Limeys founder buys into Van-Niklas

Roger Wilkinson, the former owner of mini-chain Limeys, has bought into men's accessories brand Van-Niklas.

Wilkinson, whose Limeys business fell into administration last year, has gone into partnership Van-Niklas founder Nick Griffiths. The duo plan to expand the brand into tailoring to offer independent retailers a high-margin suiting brand.

Men's tailoring will launch for autumn 08 priced from £65 for a two-piece, with an accompanying range of shirts selling for £15 a piece.

Wilkinson said: "I think we can offer independents a suit that allows them to compete with the high street. We are targeting multiples as well to achieve the volume but the product will offer independents more than a three margin which is higher than most."

The range will be sold from a West London showroom.