Bringing two iconic textile brands together: Chadwick Lawrence advises Dormeuil on acquiring Alfred Brown

At Chadwick Lawrence, we take pride in supporting ambitious businesses to achieve their strategic goals. 

Recently, we were delighted to advise Dormeuil Manufacturing Limited on the acquisition of Alfred Brown (Worsted Mills) Limited, a milestone transaction that brings together two iconic textile brands and positions them as one of the UK’s largest fabric producers.  

Strengthening British Textile Heritage 

Dewsbury-based Dormeuil Manufacturing, a prestigious luxury cloth maker, has a long-standing commitment to British manufacturing. By acquiring Leeds-based Alfred Brown, Dormeuil reinforces this commitment while combining two businesses that share values of heritage, quality, and a passion for textiles.  

Alfred Brown, founded in 1915, has its own weaving factory producing high-quality fabrics made in the UK and sold globally. Dormeuil, headquartered in Paris, has used English cloth since 1842. The acquisition allows both brands to leverage their strengths, expanding the Dormeuil Group’s reach while remaining true to the craftmanship and tradition that has defined both companies for generations. 

Chadwick Lawrence’s Role in the Deal 

This transaction was led by our Corporate & Commercial team, with Sarah Hemmings at the helm, supported by Christian Liceralde. Our team worked closely with Dormeuil to provide strategic and practical advice throughout the deal. In addition, Jonathan Moore (Commercial Property) and Sam Pawson (Employment) provided specialist input, ensuring all aspects of the acquisition were expertly managed. 

Sarah Hemmings commented: “It is always exciting to see two businesses with so much in common come together to reach further into the marketplace. Dormeuil recognises Alfred Brown’s respected brand and is committed to projecting it further with their extensive international expertise. This consolidation has every potential to reach unprecedented heights.” 

Supporting Growth and International Ambitions 

At Chadwick Lawrence, we are proud to play an active role in transactions that support growth, innovation, and international expansion. By advising Dormeuil on this acquisition, we were able to contribute to a deal that strengthens British textile manufacturing, celebrates heritage, and unlocks new opportunities on a global scale.  

Marcus Jessop, Finance Director at Dormeuil Manufacturing, said: “The team at Chadwick Lawrence went above and beyond and were an invaluable member of the deal-making team. We would not hesitate to work with them again or recommend them as a corporate deal partner”. 

Looking Ahead 

This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for Dormeuil and Alfred Brown. For Chadwick Lawrence, it’s a testament to the value of providing tailored, hands-on legal support to businesses that are ambitious, innovative and proud of their heritage. We look forward to supporting many more companies as they grow and evolve, both in the UK and internationally.