Starting life in Belfast in 2005, close to the Harland & Wolff shipyard (Zip Yard/Shipyard!) with our distinct double zip branding symbolising twin dockyard cranes, our founders were driven by a mix of personal experience – the frustration at having to wait weeks to get clothes altered and the desire to reduce waste by extending the life of clothes through repair and reuse.

Having built a network throughout Northern Ireland, The Zip Yard expanded into Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales in 2011 and currently has 51 stores across the isles.

Our aim is to have a professional alterations store in every UK town and city centre.

If you want to join our movement and open your own Zip Yard store get in touch – see our Franchise Opportunities Page.

And if you want to have new or old clothes altered or repaired – or need advice on how to restyle your wardrobe and extend the life of your clothes drop into your local store to see how they can help. The Zip Yard’s commitment to delivering excellent customer service has helped us win several high profile business awards. These include:

• The Supreme Award Franchise of the Year 2015/2016

Awarded by the Irish Franchise Association

• Retail Excellence Award Finalist 2015

Best Indigenous Irish Product/Franchise Woman of the Year

• Belfast Business Awards 2012

Best Business Expansion Award

• Best Irish Franchise 2012

Ulster Bank Irish Franchise Awards 2012

• Ulster Bank Irish Franchise Association 2012

Franchising Woman of the Year

• Ulster Bank Irish Franchise Awards 2011

Best Emerging Franchise/Best Franchise – The Zip Yard, Dun Laoghaire

You can visit one of our stores around the UK or join our movement and start your own.