Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Whispering Smith: Global Fashion Design & Wholesale Leaders
Established in 1967, Whispering Smith has grown from a single market stall to the UK's largest creator, importer, wholesaler, and distributor of clothing. As a third-generation family-run business, we combine decades of industry expertise with a commitment to innovation and ethical practices. Our headquarters in Manchester serves as the central hub for designing, producing, and distributing fashion-forward collections to retailers and e-tailers globally. With a team of 25 dedicated designers and state-of-the-art warehouses spanning over 500,000 sq ft, we ensure rapid turnaround times and seamless supply chain operations. Our services extend across trend research, design, manufacturing, and distribution, catering to both established brands and emerging businesses.We prioritise ethical sourcing, diversity, and quality, adhering to strict standards in chemical compliance and animal welfare. Our streamlined business model enables retailers to access in-stock inventory within 3-5 working days, supported by a 24/7 wholesale portal. With offices in London, New York, Madrid, Dusseldorf, and South Africa, we maintain a global presence while upholding family values at our core. Our legacy of excellence continues under the leadership of Creative Director Rohina Kumar and Managing Director Rohil Kumar, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the fashion industry.
Services
Clothing Design
Bespoke Manufacturing
In-Stock Wholesale
Photography Services
Global Distribution
Retail Partnerships
E-Commerce Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1967
Highlights and features
- We have over 55 years of experience in global fashion design and distribution
- We offer both in-stock and bespoke manufacturing solutions for retailers
- Our ethical supply chain prioritises fair wages and sustainable practices
- We operate a 24/7 wholesale portal with free UK delivery over 400
- Our global network spans seven international offices and showrooms
Services
Clothing Design
Our team of 25 designers specialise in creating trend-led collections for menswear and womenswear. Drawing inspiration from catwalk shows, we curate fabrics and develop innovative designs tailored to brand identities. With expertise across outerwear, knitwear, denim, and accessories, we deliver high-quality, market-ready collections that align with current fashion trends and consumer demands.
Bespoke Manufacturing
We partner with retailers to manufacture exclusive collections tailored to specific market needs. From sampling to delivery, dedicated account managers ensure seamless production processes. Our flexible minimum order quantities support emerging brands while maintaining competitive pricing and quality standards. This service includes access to our global supplier network and industry expertise.
In-Stock Wholesale
Access over 10 million worth of pre-developed fashion inventory available for immediate dispatch. Our seasonal collections are packaged in retail-ready cartons with options for 24/7 online ordering through our wholesale portal. This service caters to retailers seeking fast turnaround times without compromising on trend relevance or quality standards.
Global Distribution
Our streamlined supply chain ensures efficient delivery of stock to retailers worldwide. With warehouses spanning 500,000 sq ft, we guarantee delivery to UK retailers within 3-5 working days. The service includes inventory management solutions and forward-ordering options to help businesses maintain optimal stock levels across multiple markets.
Retail Partnerships
We collaborate with leading e-commerce platforms and retail brands to supply trend-led collections. Current partners include ASOS, Boohoo, and Zalando. This service offers access to our design expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and global distribution network, enabling brands to expand their product offerings while maintaining quality and ethical standards.
People
Krishna 'Lal' Kumar
Founder
Founded Whispering Smith in 1967, transforming a market stall into a global fashion enterprise. His legacy of innovation and ethical business practices continues to shape the company's values across three generations.
Rohan Kumar
Co-Owner
Second-generation leader with over 30 years' experience in fashion wholesale. Oversees strategic growth while maintaining family values. Instrumental in expanding the company's international presence and modernising production processes.
Rohil Kumar
Managing Director
Third-generation leader responsible for operational excellence. Drives digital transformation initiatives and strengthens global partnerships. Ensures the business maintains its competitive edge through innovative supply chain solutions.
Rohina Kumar
Creative Director
Head of design with a focus on trend innovation. Leads a team of 25 designers creating market-leading collections. Combines creative vision with commercial awareness to ensure designs meet both aesthetic and retail demands.
Vijay Patel
Manchester Office Contact
Key contact for Manchester operations with extensive knowledge of wholesale logistics. Manages client relationships and ensures smooth coordination between design, production, and distribution teams.
Questions
What services does Whispering Smith offer?
We provide clothing design, bespoke manufacturing, in-stock wholesale, photography services, and global distribution solutions for fashion retailers and brands.
How does Whispering Smith ensure ethical production?
We partner with suppliers who uphold fair wages, safe working conditions, and anti-discrimination policies. Non-compliant suppliers face responsible exit strategies.
What delivery times can I expect?
UK deliveries typically arrive within 3-5 working days. International delivery times vary depending on destination and shipping method.
Do you offer 24/7 ordering options?
Yes, our wholesale portal allows retailers to purchase in-stock items 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Which markets do you operate in?
We serve clients globally with offices in Manchester, London, New York, Dusseldorf, Madrid, South Africa, and Italy.
