Celtic & Co appoints new MD to ‘accelerate growth’

British heritage brand Celtic & Co has appointed Claire Heathcote as its new Managing Director, as it strives to supercharge growth.

Heathcote brings over 20 years of retail industry experience, most recently as Product and Marketing Director at sustainable knitwear brand Loop Cashmere, which she also co-founded in 2020.

Prior to that she was at Pure Collection for over eight and a half years, the last two of which as Buying and Merchandising Director, and before that was Product Manager at Panache Lingerie, having joined after three years at Debenhams as Merchandiser, Premium Health and Beauty.

James Williams, Group CEO at Refined Brands, which acquired Celtic & Co in February 2021, said: "I’m delighted to welcome Claire to the Refined Brands group. Building on our recent successes launching with John Lewis, Nordstrom and NEXT, she brings a wealth of experience across brand storytelling and will play a pivotal role in accelerating Celtic & Co’s growth and unlocking the next phase of opportunities."

Heathcote commented: "I’m excited to have joined Celtic & Co, a brand with deep British roots, an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and a clear responsibility to people and planet.

"As we look ahead, our focus will be on staying true to what makes us special - natural materials, exceptional quality and thoughtful design - while continuing to evolve and grow.

"I look forward to working closely with the team to build on the incredible foundation here and shape the next chapter, one that honours our heritage while embracing fresh ambition."

Established in 1990, Celtic & Co celebrates its 35th anniversary this season with an "elevated collection to honour this milestone".

Celtic & Co first found fame with its sheepskin slippers and boots, later adding luxury knitwear, outerwear and accessories. It also launched its first denim collection in July 2024.

Refined Brands is a digital-first ethical fashion group founded in 2021, which brings together sustainable British heritage and independent brands such as ethical childrenswear brand Frugi, which it acquired in December 2022, as well as Celtic & Co.