Europe’s intimate apparel brand Hunkemöller in Trinidad

Originally a Dutch company with roots as far back as the 19th century, Hunkem?ller is rapidly expanding throughout Europe and through its franchise programme now has over 722 locations globally.

InvesTT said the local store opening was made possible because of a partnership be tween “US-based master franchising company, Brand Management Ventures Limited (BMVL) (and) a prominent Trinidadian entrepreneur, through BMVL’s locally registered subsidiary Brand Management Limited (BML).” This partnership followed an introduction facilitated by InvesTT, this country’s national investment promotion agency which falls under the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

“The engagement between InvesTT, BMVL and BML began in 2013 when the agency was instrumental in identifying local partners, providing assistance with the business registration, customs clearance and coordinating site visits, as BMVL’s plans for Trinidad and Tobago will continue to create opportunities for local business persons to partner alongside world class brands,” InvesTT stated.

Noting these partnerships have to potential to extend beyond TT to the rest of the Caribbean, InvesTT’s Acting President Stacy Adams, “We continue to give BML all the support they need to expand their business in TT while creating investment opportunities for local investors.” Hunkem?ller is the second global brand to be introduced in TT by BML.

“Earlier in 2016 they successfully introduced the Polish brand Inglot Cosmetics in partnership with Starlite Drugs. Collectively, both brands have produced approximately 15 jobs in Trinidad with the potential for increased employment as additional Hunkem?ller and Inglot Cosmetics stores are expected to be set up over the next two years. In fact, Inglot will launch a second store in SouthPark in March 2017,” InvesTT said.

Richard Aquilina, Partner of both BMVL and BML, said Trinidad remains a key retail market for BML.

“We have been particularly encouraged by the performance of Inglot in Trinidad and believe Hunkemoller too will be received well by local consumers.

In both cases, Inglot and latterlyHunkem?ller, fill gaps in the retail marketplace offering quality products at affordable prices.” “Focussing on Trinidad initially, we see this as a springboard for further expansion and development not only within TT but also across the Caribbean.

InvesTT has been paramount in supporting our strategy to date offering advice and support across a wide spectrum of areas and certainly we would not be in the position we are today without their help and support,” Aquilina said.