Hiut Denim, a high-end jeans manufacturer in Cardigan, west Wales, was taken over by the German von Loeper family in September 2025. The company, founded in 2011 by David and Clare Hieatt, faced financial difficulties following the Covid pandemic.
Johann von Loeper, 26, became the chief executive after his family's investment group acquired the company. His father, Philipp, was a loyal customer who reportedly bought over 30 pairs of Hiut jeans. The family has committed to maintaining manufacturing in Cardigan.
Hiut Denim currently employs 20 people, who produce 120 pairs of jeans each week. The company's products, which include styles starting at £245, are handmade from 17 pieces of fabric and come with a "made in Wales" label signed by the stitcher, as well as lifetime repairs.
The new owners are updating the jeans collection and hope to increase production by hiring more staff. They believe there is a "five-year window" to train new employees as experienced staff approach retirement age. Hiut Denim also aims to broaden its appeal and has secured new stockists.