Hansfords is truly a family business. In October 1908 Matthew's grandfather, Joscelyn Hansford, opened a clothing store for "young men and men of youth" in London Road, Bognor and gave it the family name.
Such was its success that Joscelyn Hansford was able to expand his business to open additional stores in the popular seaside towns of Littlehampton, Brighton and Worthing. However, during WWII a shortage of goods and lack of staff forced their closure and it wasn't until after the war when Matthew's father, Don Hansford, joined the company that another store was opened.
Contrary to his father's wishes, Don Hansford decided to expand into what he then perceived to be an up-and-coming town: Chichester. And what a great decision it proved to be! When Matthew joined in 1990 the Bognor store was relinquished and the departments for ladies and weddings in the Chichester shop were withdrawn so the focus could be solely on menswear.
Today Hansfords Menswear continues to flourish in the now well-respected and hugely popular city of Chichester. Hansfords retains its well-deserved reputation for superior quality clothing and still adheres to Jocelyn's imperative of outstanding customer service.