A historic textile supplier established in the early twentieth century is set to open its first dedicated retail space within one of London’s most prestigious department stores.
William Gee, recognised as the longest-running haberdashery business in East London, will establish a concession at Liberty on Regent Street this November.
The move coincides with the company’s 120th anniversary of trading.
The family-owned enterprise traces its origins to 1906, when founder William Goldstein, an immigrant from Eastern Europe who subsequently altered his surname, launched operations with an initial inventory valued at just £2.
The company has since developed into a significant supplier within the British textile sector.
Jeffrey Graham, a director at William Gee, noted that the organisation had endured for more than a century by embracing transformation and flexibility.
He indicated that rather than succumbing to broader retail difficulties, the company had chosen to strengthen its physical retail footprint, creating what he described as a source of inspiration for emerging creative professionals.
The business initially concentrated on supplying the garment manufacturing operations in Hackney.
Its current customer base encompasses independent designers, costume departments for film and theatrical productions, and an expanding network of craftspeople.
As Liberty selects haberdashery partner, William Gee will introduce an edited collection drawn from its catalogue of 9,000 items.
The range will feature YKK fastening systems, Gutermann sewing threads, and equipment designed for professional tailoring work.
Adam Graham, who serves as a director alongside his father Jeffrey, observed that while East London had undergone substantial transformation, the business’s fundamental principles remained unchanged.
He stated the company remained committed to supporting the design community that sustains London’s fashion sector, and that collaboration with an institution of Liberty’s standing represented a natural progression for the enterprise.
The new retail space will showcase an extended assortment of sewing supplies, haberdashery goods, and fashion design materials, alongside facilities for hosting professional sewing sessions and community gatherings.