Who remembers the shirt factories that once defined our city’s industrial heartbeat? For many, these factories weren’t just places of work—they were the soul of a thriving community. Among them was a factory on Magazine Street, home to what is now Hunter Apparel Solutions Limited (Hunter), a company rooted in tradition yet leading in innovation.

A Journey Through Time

Hunter’s story began in Belfast in 1936, when Reggie and Frank Hunter founded Hunter Brothers (Belfast) Limited, a wholesale menswear business. After World War II, the company moved to Derry ~ Londonderry in 1952, purchasing Usher’s shirt and pyjama factory on Carlisle Road.

When structural issues forced a relocation to Magazine Street, the business transformed into the Huntwright Shirt and Collar Company. It was here that Graham Hunter O.B.E. took the reins in the 1960s, marking the beginning of a new era. By the late 1970s, the company had grown exponentially, manufacturing an extraordinary 500,000 shirts per year, and was already exporting globally, particularly into the Middle East. Also during the 1980’s, the premises hosted, large laundry facilities as well as manufacturing and offices.

In 1989, the company moved to Springtown Industrial Estate, where it shifted gears to focus on a broader range of uniform clothing. Over the decades, under the leadership of Graham’s sons, Simon and Jeff Hunter, the company evolved into Hunter Apparel Solutions Limited —a trusted name in bespoke uniform and protective clothing for clients across the UK, Ireland, and beyond.

Today the company now sees the fourth generation of the Hunter family coming into the fold. Simon Hunter Esq, M.B.E., the current CEO, is joined by his son Jude Hunter, continuing a proud legacy that now spans nearly 90 years.

Tradition Meets Innovation

Despite its cutting-edge transformation, Hunter has always remained true to its roots. Combining the artistry of tailoring with modern technology, robotics, and advanced design, Hunter creates specialised apparel solutions for diverse industries.

We transform people’s lives and we love to watch the transformation it’s what we call Hunter Wear It Be It.

Learn more about the Hunter Way : The Hunter Way | Hunter Apparel Solutions

A Proud Hunter Family Legacy

This is more than just the company’s home; it’s a source of inspiration and pride to be the longest-surviving clothing and textile company in our region. This community and its rich history, as well as the enduring skills of its people, have shaped Hunter’s modern identity.

Looking Ahead

We are always growing, and seeking to recruit, train and develop the next generation. If you are ambitious and want to learn new skills send us your CV, we would love to know more about you.

Contact us and learn more about how we’re combining tradition and technology at sales@hunterapparelsolutions.com

Take a look at how our premises has transformed over time;

Hunter’s building in Magazine Street.

When Hunter’s moved to Springtown after 1989.

Hunter’s Building today 2025.