Fashion firm narrows losses

LUXURY North East fashion firm END Clothing narrowed its losses in a year in which it was acquired by new owners and also shed 200 jobs.

- COREENA FORD Business writer [e-mail]

The Washington-based streetwear retailer originally launched 20 years ago by university friends Christiaan Ashworth and John Parker now has a global audience through its website and five stores, including a flagship shop in Newcastle city centre.

Last October the business, known for its rare trainers and high-end fashion brands, was snapped up in an undisclosed deal by private equity giant Apollo, three years after former owner The Carlyle Group bought the business.

Accounts covering the year ended March 30, 2025 at the company highlight the acquisition as a transaction which "strengthened the balance sheet of the group by significantly reducing the debt and interest burden", saying Apollo have been involved with the group since the previous owners, having provided finance for the initial acquisition.