One of the UK’s fastest growing brands has created a jobs lifeline in Wrexham.
The outdoor clothing specialists, Trespass, have just opened a new store at the Eagles Meadow shopping centre.
They have recruited eight new members of staff including Manager Matthew Langwine, 30, who was unemployed for 10 months before getting the job.
According to Matthew, it was a massive morale booster that’s enabling him and the rest of the team to look forward with confidence.
The award-winning company was founded the West Coast of Scotland in 1984 and is planning to open around 40 news stores across the UK in 2012.
The arrival of Trespass marked the seventh new store opening at Eagles Meadow since the beginning of 2011.
Matthew Langwine said: “We design clothing to be used outside, up hills, mountains on snow and in rain.
“If you love climbing, hiking and travelling you’ll love Trespass clothing. If you have a passion for skiing or snowboarding we have kit for you.
“If you just like to spend as much time outdoors be it in the park or on the peaks Trespass provide affordable practical performance at all levels.
“The range is all high quality and the warehouse in Scotland is the size of a small town.
“Around 90 per cent of what we sell is own-brand – the secret of Trespass’s success is good quality and good prices.”
Matthew has 10 years’ experience working in retail and has previously managed newsagents’ and supermarkets.
He added: “Before getting the job at Trespass I was unemployed for 10 months so getting the job just before Christmas was perfect timing. It’s great news for all of us here.
“Eagles Meadow is great, there’s a good buzz around the shopping centre and it’s been really busy since we opened.
Former factory worker Lee Charles, 35, was also unemployed for six months before the job at Trespass came along.
He said: “Before I got the job here I was working in the industrial sector, but Trespass were good enough to give me a chance and take a punt on me.
“Being out of work was very difficult and I’m really glad of this opportunity.
“This is my first job in retail and it’s fantastic. I’m working with a great bunch of people and the company provide good training.
“I feel confident because Trespass is a successful brand and they’re opening stores nationwide on a regular basis.
“It feels great to be part of a growing company because as we know with the economy at the moment there are a other companies that are falling by the wayside. It’s nice feeling you’ve got a bit of security.”
Eagles Meadow Manager Kevin Critchley was delighted to welcome Trespass to the shopping centre.
He said: “Trespass is a fantastically successful and growing brand name so their shop is a very welcome addition to our range of stores and leisure facilities.
“It’s also great that they are creating new employment opportunities in Wrexham.
“Since Eagles Meadow opened in 2008, we have helped to generate a net increase of 1,000 retail jobs in Wrexham and re-establish the town as the shopping capital of North Wales.”
