Gandys, the British lifestyle brand favoured by Prince William, has collapsed into administration, prompting discounts of up to 75% on its website and at its Covent Garden flagship store. The company, known for outdoor apparel and travel-inspired accessories, filed a notice on 25 March after a sudden withdrawal of funding, according to Drapers.
Founded in 2012 by brothers Rob and Paul Forkan, Gandys began as a flip-flop label. The brothers lost their parents in the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami. A portion of the brand’s revenue supported the Gandys Foundation, which builds campuses for underprivileged children in Ghana, Kenya and Bali.
The brand gained royal attention after the brothers wore flip-flops to Buckingham Palace. Prince Harry reportedly joked about their attire but later praised their charity work. Prince William, who shared a similar age when losing his mother, Princess Diana, encouraged them to continue. Paul Forkan recalled William saying, “Keep going and do what you believe in.”
One bag on the website has been reduced from £125 to £50, a 60% discount. Law firm Ellisons Solicitors is representing the company in the ongoing case. On LinkedIn, customer Jamie Irving expressed sadness, calling Gandys a “genuinely purpose-led business” and noting that even mission-driven firms face challenges today.
