Executive Summary
Clinton Cards is the largest specialist retailer of greetings cards, plush merchandise (soft toys) and related products in the UK with over 700 shops. Clinton Cards operate shops ranging in size from a typical 1,600 square feet shop to the largest shop situated in Leeds White Rose. The Leeds shop which is arguably the largest specialist greetings card shop in the world measures a massive 10,750 square feet on two floors. Clinton Cards offers the most extensive range of quality greetings cards, gift dressing and plush merchandise among UK retailers. This is especially so at seasonal times such as Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Christmas and Easter. Clinton's has taken the lead in offering cards for numerous other occasions such as the UK Patron Saints' Days as well as festivals and New Year celebrations of other religions and nationalities.
Company History
- Clinton Cards was founded in 1968 when Don Lewin OBE, the present Chairman, opened his first shop in Epping, Essex.
- The business grew to 77 shops by 1988 and was then successfully floated on the London Stock Market. This enabled the company to increase its rate of growth and by the summer of 1994 the business comprised 277 shops.
- In October 1994 Clintons acquired 83 shops from Hallmark Cards and in September 1995 acquired 112 shops from Carlton Cards. In October 1998, the entire share capital of GSG Holdings Limited was purchased, adding a further 211 shops to the portfolio.
- In December 2004, the acquisition of The Birthdays Group took place, increasing the total estate by yet another 488 stores.
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