## Firstly, could you please tell us about Jackman and the work you do for the Brand.

Jackman is a factory brand rooted in Tanabe Meriyasu, a company founded in 1949. Although the factory had been producing sportswear for many years, the Jackman brand was officially established in 2011.

I've been in charge of sales in the Jackman shops in Japan since the brand launched. Thankfully, our products have been well received, and that positive response inspired me to expand Jackman's reach internationally. I initially started handling overseas sales through short business trips, but in 2022, I relocated to the UK for about three years. My role there was to manage our Park Street shop just off London's Borough Market, which opened in 2020, and to oversee wholesale operations across Europe and North America - all based out of the UK.

## Can you tell us how the Park Street store in London came to life.

Jackman is owned by the same company as Lavenham and Fred Perry, which naturally created a close connection between the brands. Thanks to this relationship, the president and chairman of Fred Perry took a personal interest in Jackman's shops and products. Impressed by the quality and identity of the brand, they encouraged us to bring Jackman to the UK. That support led to our first step into the market with a limited time pop-up shop. The response was very positive, prompting the decision to open a permanent location. Since 2022, as the effects of COVID-19 have eased up, sales have continued to grow steadily.

## Was there anything the local customers said or did that really stood out to you?

I’ve noticed that customers in the UK generally prefer simpler, more understated designs compared to those in Japan. Jackman’s clothing is rooted in basics, but what sets it apart are the subtle, carefully crafted details unique to Japanese manufacturing. For example, our pockets often feature slight gussets and refined construction - small touches that UK customers have really appreciated.

There are two qualities that seem to resonate universally, both in Japan and abroad: the fabric and the sewing technique. Take our ‘DOTSUME’ T-shirt for example. It’s made on vintage knitting machines and uses twice as much thread as a typical Jackman T-shirt, resulting in a much thicker and more durable fabric. That combination of quality and durability has led to more repeat customers and positive word of mouth - a cycle we’re really grateful for.

## What was your relationship like with the Lavenham team whilst working with them at the offices in London?

In the London office, I worked with both the Lavenham and George Cox teams. We had a great working relationship and often introduced our buying customers to each others brands. Even though all brands were different, there was a great atmosphere and sense of hard work throughout the office. We also spent time with each other outside of work, going to pubs and playing sports.

## So you lived in London with your family, did you enjoy it?

We lived in West London, which has a lot of green space. One thing that really surprised us was the amount of fallen leaves outside our house every day - you can see that in the photos! We were also close to Kew Gardens, which is huge and beautifully maintained. The annual pass was reasonably priced, so it quickly became one of our favourite places to visit as a family.

## During your time in the UK, you also visited the Lavenham Factory. What did you think?

I was on a business trip to Norwich, and since the Lavenham factory was on the way, I decided to stop by. I only planned to stay briefly, but the factory manager, Nicky, gave me such a warm welcome and took the time to guide me through the entire production process.

What really surprised me was the number of quality checks. Almost every step is carefully inspected, even the smallest details. It showed how serious they are about maintaining high standards. I was also very impressed after meeting a staff member who has worked there for over 30 years. At Jackman, we also deeply value the experience of our veteran craftsmen, so I felt a real sense of connection between our two brands.

## Are there any similarities you’ve found in Jackman and Lavenham from a manufacturing perspective?

Definitely! Both brands have a strong heritage rooted in their own historic factories. Jackman’s factory dates back over 70 years to the days of Tanabe Meriyasu, having been established in 1949, with the Jackman brand itself launching as a sportswear manufacturer in 1967. Lavenham was founded just a couple of years later, in 1969, so they share a similar timeline in terms of their origins.

Despite being based in very different parts of the world, both companies are deeply committed to local production. They continue to manufacture in their original factories, supporting local employment and preserving traditional craftsmanship. That dedication to locality and quality production is a clear common ground between the two.

## I can see you are wearing the Lavenham Stud Front Bomber Gilet today. What drew you to this gilet?

I love the classic bomber-style ribbed collar on this gilet. It’s great for keeping you warm and can act as a scarf for when there’s a chill in the air. The pocket design is also a standout feature. With four inner pockets, it's incredibly practical for securely storing your wallet and other essentials, making it ideal for both everyday wear and travel.

## What would you pair this Bomber Gilet with?

At Jackman, we design collarless jackets every season, inspired by classic baseball shirts. When layered with the Bomber Gilet, the ribbed necklines fit perfectly on top of each other, creating a clean, considered look. Underneath, we’ve introduced a new Lavenham X Jackman long-sleeved T-shirt which is coming out this autumn/winter. It features narrow ribbed cuffs, making it versatile enough to wear either on its own or as a comfortable inner layer.

## We also noticed you’ve styled a Jackman Jacket with our Kirton Gilet, which uses fabric sourced from a Scottish cotton brand Halley Stevenson. What inspired this pairing?

Both pieces are made from 100% cotton, making them a perfect match in terms of material. The gilet, though unwadded, still provides warmth and is conveniently lightweight, making it easy to fold and carry without adding bulk. Layered over it is the Jackman Tenpi Umps Jacket, named for its unique finishing process as each one is carefully sun-dried by a single craftsman. This method gives every jacket a distinct sense of character that can't be replicated by standard tumble drying.

The T-shirt is crafted from American-grown cotton, known for its dry feel and breathable comfort which is ideal for warmer climates. It also features a quilted pocket made by Lavenham. The fabric, sourced from the UK, is sent to Jackman's factory where it is expertly sewn onto the front of the shirt.