Revamp for Whangarei menswear business

Tim and Robyn Green are open for business as Whangarei Menswear and Suit Hire. Photo / John Stone

Whangarei Suit Hire has changed owners and also has a new name.

Tim and Robyn Green bought the men's retail outlet from Paul Allan after Mr Green identified a gap in the market after Mullengers Mens Store closed just over one year ago.

The Greens have renovated the store and renamed it Whangarei Menswear and Suit Hire.

They have also changed the direction of the business, introducing a greater emphasis on retailing smart casual attire while retaining the suit hire side of the business.

"We will be targeting the more mature dressers, men of 25-plus, opting for dress trousers and dress jeans, upmarket polo and casual shirts as well as a small range of quality suits."

The Greens have been in the menswear business for more than 40 years and own Orewa Menswear.

Mr Green said he already knows some of his Whangarei clientele, saying many customers have been coming to the Orewa store for their clothes.

The Orewa store has two years to run on its lease and they will decide closer to the time if they wish to retain the store.

Mr Green bought the Orewa store from his parents about 10 years ago. They opened the shop in 1974 and he worked for them for more than 20 years.

They are in the process of buying a section at Ruakaka where they intend to build but on the short term are also looking for a house in Whangarei, preferably within walking or biking distance from their Rust Ave store.

- Former owner Paul Allan said it had just been the right time for him to leave the business and he is now considering his options.

"I'm going to take a break and evaluate where to from here - but I definitely will not be setting up another business," he said.