A high-end clothing retailer with big ambitions is opening a new shop in Bristol city centre.
Benedict Raven has its sights set on becoming the "next leading luxury menswear brand" and hopes its forthcoming Quakers Friars shop will help it achieve this.
Taking over the site formerly home to Fred Perry in Philadelphia Street, which has moved to Park Street, the store will stock the full Benedict Raven collection including t-shirts, knitwear and jeans.
The start-up business operated a "successful" three-month pop-up in Bath early last year - after which its founder, James Kingston, slammed the "absurd" rent costs.
Having launched Benedict Raven in 2018 following the success of his recruitment company, Mr Kingston is now looking forward to getting a shop up and running in his home city on June 4.
"This is a very exciting time for Benedict Raven as we take on the high street," he said.
"As a luxury menswear designer that’s been predominantly online, we’ve developed strong brand loyalty with our customers and want to make the Benedict Raven experience even better.
"We found after asking customers for feedback that they really enjoyed our Bath store and being able to identify with the brand.
"Making a more enjoyable, exciting experience to people who love the brand is an important part of the luxury shopping experience."
In a press release announcing the shop's arrival, a Benedict Raven spokesperson said the collection will "see the men of Bristol flocking towards" the shop.
The press release goes on to say the company "has its sights set on becoming the next leading luxury menswear brand" with "big ambitions to have a presence worldwide".
The shop likely won't appeal to all high street shoppers, however, as the cheapest t-shirt available online is £35 while the cheapest pair of jeans is £70.
Shoppers after a jumper will be looking at £70 and above, while those in need of a jacket will need to fork out at least £295.
"Fashion for me comes from a desire to want to look and feel good and that feeling has always been enhanced when wearing great clothing," added Mr Kingston.
"Travelling the world, I sourced the finest fabrics, partnered with master craftsman and created our first collection.
"Each garment is designed to appeal to those who share a passion for style paired with luxury and usability."
Benedict Raven will open at 5 Philadelphia Street, Quakers Friars, Cabot Circus on June 4. More information can be found on its website.
