'Quality & Value for Money'

Bridal wear consultancy Lola Gray is targeting expansion in Scotland, having awarded its master franchise to Stuart Spearritt and Erin Murphy. Rachel Spaul interviews

Quality and value for money proved attractive selling points for fashion retail entrepreneur Stuart Spearritt and event organiser Erin Murphy. Stuart explains: 'The retail sector has changed immensely over the last five to 10 years. Consumers are more clued up and not so prepared to spend vast sums of money. Lola Gray fills a gap in the market for low cost, quality bridal wear and has great potential.' Stuart, whose business portfolio includes French Connection, and Erin, who has wedding planning experience, have pooled their skills to drive the expansion of Lola Gray in Scotland. 'Stuart and Erin are very experienced business people and perfect for taking Lola Gray into Scotland,' says Richard Nyman, Lola Gray Managing Director. 'Lola Gray is a completely unique concept with an unrivalled service that leaves other bridal retailers standing at the altar.' Lola Gray is a new breed of bridal retailer whose simple premise is to offer 'brides to be' an extensive selection of exclusively designed dresses, in any size, and at half the price of traditional retailers. Working from secondary high street shops or dedicated home-showrooms, franchisees offer flexible appointment scheduling, a comfortable and relaxed environment, a wide range of styles and sizes at competitive prices, plus prompt delivery upon payment. 'This is what gives Lola Gray its competitive edge in the market,' explains Stuart. 'All dresses, in all sizes are stocked in warehouse facilities in the UK and Ireland, which allows for immediate delivery. The biggest selling point is price.' Stuart and Erin are currently putting the finishing touches to their Aberdeen showroom and are looking forward to receiving enquiries from dynamic, sales-driven, and self-motivated individuals. Lola Gray is also looking for suitable candidates from the rest of the UK and Ireland. Richard concludes: 'Our collections appeal to all markets. It is exclusive and only available through Lola Gray consultants. Nowhere else offers a full range of sizes from 8 to 24, and nowhere else can the bride receive her dress, bridesmaid dresses, or flower girl dress in a matter of weeks. We know we've got something exciting. This business looks and feels good. We're entering a value-driven market and have hit it at just the right time.'