Investment to fuel Julien Macdonald growth

Designer Julien Macdonald plans to build his designer business into a British luxury brand after securing a private investment deal.

Macdonald has teamed up with financial backer Jamey Hargreaves, son of Matalan founder John Hargreaves and the former head of menswear and director of marketing at the value retailer. Hargreaves will become chairman of the Julien Macdonald business.

The pair plan to grow the designer womenswear brand and establish it as a premium player, with a new head office, an expanded design team and a broader product range. They also plan to open stores and concessions around the world.

"With his style, talent and energy, Julien can build a luxury brand to rival the biggest names in fashion," said Hargreaves.

Christopher Spiri, a former director of investor relations at Italian motorcycle firm Ducati, has joined as chief executive.