Kinky Knickers' manufacturer exits administration

Headen and Quarmby factory, which produces underwear for brands

such as Mary Portas' Kinky Knickers, will be exiting administration to go back to production anytime soon. The move will save 12 of the original 33 jobs.

Former factory's managing director, David Moor, has bought the plant and said they will restart production as soon as possible. "We have a strong underlying business and a full order book. We're determined to rebuild a great British success story, thanks to the support of our staff, retailers, suppliers and Mary Portas," advanced Moor.

On that note, Kerry Bailey, restructuring partner at accountancy firm BDO which handled the administration process, said the support of a large number of independent retailers had enabled the management team to successfully finance a bid for the business.

The 79-year-old factory in Middleton, Greater Manchester, used to produce and serve a variety of clothing for a number of High Street and online retailers, including House of Fraser and Asos, although it is best known for manufacturing Kinky Knickers, the brand founded by Mary Portas.

According to BBC, the former manufacturing agreement has been inherited by the new company, and it is hoped it will help to kick-start the factory's production.

At the beginning of the year, Headen and Quarmby Limited found itself draught into administration due to its debts. At the time, administrators said that orders had fallen sharply.

Mary Portas said: "I was so sorry to hear about the issues H&Q had in January. I'm thrilled they've had the confidence and the vision to re-build," reported 'The Guardian'.