Lisburn business McCall's marks sixtieth anniversary in style

McCalls of Lisburn has not only been nominated for a prestigious national award, but it also happens to coincide with a very special anniversary of the landmark menswear store.

Recognised widely as the industry’s most highly-respected accolade, the Drapers’ Awards celebrate the best in fashion retailing and this year their roll-call includes McCalls of Lisburn for the coveted Independent Menswear Retailer UK & Ireland category.

This is the third time that the three-generation, family-run business has been nominated for such an industry standard and the entire McCall family is hoping that this will be a case of “third time lucky” as 2016 has also marked their sixtieth anniversary of trading. Robert William McCall opened his gentleman’s outfitters on Lisburn’s Market Street way back in April 1956 and it became an instant favourite with the fashion-conscious men of County Down and beyond. When he retired, Robert’s two sons Mervyn and Percy McCall took over the running of the store.

Three generations later, it is still very much a family concern, continuing to go from strength to strength in the capable hands of Mark, Chris, Jill and Alastair.

And now, even a fourth generation is getting involved as Kirsty works part time on the online side of the business and some of Robert’s younger great-grandchildren spend their school holidays working in the store.

Although McCalls boasts an extensive collection of global menswear labels which can rival any multi-national chain, the fact that it is a family business with World Host status means that a warm welcome and a personal, friendly service is absolutely assured when customers drop in.

To celebrate the store’s landmark sixtieth year, the team paired up with fashion photographer Khara Pringle and locally based models Cameron Kelly and Carlos Djalo to showcase a selection of looks for the new season.

Director Alastair McCall said: “This season we have a number of new trends starting to make an appearance. Although there are still plenty of popular blues and greys we have striking shades of Peacock, Bordeaux and Apple Red making their mark.”