What is Damart?
Damart is a French company, founded in 1053 by three brothers Joseph, Paul and Jules Despature. They had a fabrics business in Roubaix in the North of France, and are famous for developing and patenting Thermolactyl, a unique man-made fibre renowned for its ability to provide warmth without lots of bulky layers.
They designed thermal underwear using chlorofibre, a synthetic fibre which proved effective against cold conditions and moisture. This was first tested at Nanterre hospital, on patients suffering from rheumatism, with positive results. Damart's first mail-order catalogue was published in 1953 and marked the beginning of their successful career.
Damartex group currently employs over 4,000 people worldwide, with about 650 of these in the UK In 1976, Damart went public and was listed on the Paris Stock Exchange. Damart celebrated its 50th anniversary In 2003. It had 130 stores across Europe and an active customer base of 10 million.
It is one of Europe's leading multichannel brands for the over 55s, making senior's lives more enjoyable by providing them with a unique style, comfort and innovation. Damart's popularity stems from their strong company ethos. They are heavily invested in the environment and well-being and is committed to three charities: -
Breast Cancer Now
For each item sold, £5 of the purchase price is donated to Breast Cancer Now, a charity that is determined to stop women dying from Breast Cancer. Their core belief is that if we all act now, by 2050, everyone who develops breast cancer will survive. To date, Damart has raised more than £167,317 for the Breast Cancer Now Campaign.
In 2002, Damart entered into a partnership with the Breast Cancer Now Campaign and has since raised £82,000 for breast cancer awareness through sales of its limited-edition pink vest. The Pink Vest campaign has seen a publicity contribution from several media stars over the years.
Heart Research UK
Damart has not only been awarded the prestigious "Healthy Heart Employer – Gold Standard Award" but they have retained it every year since 2010. Winning the award year on year takes commitment and dedication, not only from the business but also from work colleagues.
This includes promotion and implementation of healthy lifestyle changes, offering healthy food options and participation in physical activities. Heart Research UK and Damart have re-launched their Happy Healthy Heart Cookbook to full of delicious, heart-healthy and filling recipes.
The Silver Line (helpline for older people)
Damart's most recent charity partnership is with The Silver Line, the only national, free and confidential helpline for older people. It is accessible every single day and night of the year.
The issue of loneliness in older people has been highlighted recently in the media and Damart are delighted to do what they can for this vital issue. From products to afternoon tea with customers, Damart has celebrated, promoted and raised funds for this essential charity.
Damart actively promotes this charity raising funds for such a worthy cause with loads of events and activities, including bake sales and wearing silver for the day. Offering a free, confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people The Silver Line is available on a 24 hr basis, seven days a week, throughout the year.
Damart's slogan which translated as "Cold, me? Never! I wear healthy warm Thermawear" soon became synonymous with the brand, thanks to pioneering TV advertising. Damart's image then transformed from one of a medical brand to a brand producing thermal clothing for, primarily senior customers. With over 1 million products sold, Damart soon became the market leader in thermal apparel.
In September 1974, Damart sponsored Doug Haston and Doug Scott on their Everest expedition. They wear wearing Damart thermals whilst climbing to the summit. Damart technicians also created bespoke Thermolactyl equipment for the 60-day journey of a French explorer who was crossing the ice on foot to reach the North Pole. He faced gruelling temperatures of minus 60%C.
On the 12th September 1991, Princess Diana visited the Damart UK head office in Bingley, West Yorkshire, for a grand company tour. During her visit, palace staff bought Damart's thermal underwear from the on-site shop.
The Princess wanted them to wear during winter months, admitting that she kept warm in freezing weather by wearing the company's fashionable thermal underwear. She said, "I'm like a walking advertisement for Damart", a true testament to the quality of Damart thermals. They were considered good enough for royalty! Damart underwear was also featured in the 1983 James Bond book "Ice Breaker".
Damart prides itself on it's an innovative approach to textiles. Following the success of innovative fabric Thermolactyl, Damart decided to turn their attention to the footwear market. They developed shoes with comfortable inbuilt cushions of air in the insoles, giving the wearer that walking on air with every step feeling.
Damart's innovation continued with Amortyl, an innovative shock absorber development specifically for footwear. In 2013 they expanded the range, introducing new advanced moulded hiking shoes that were both high-tech and ultra-comfortable.
Damart developed its Climatyl fabric which boasted triple effect technology. It was waterproof, windproof & breathable and based on the latest textile advances. Damart also developed the first slimming trousers in 2006.
An innovative fabric was used to create Lineastyl, which had many apparel applications, including underwear, ready-to-wear and sportswear.
World champions became ambassadors of Damart Sport; French Figure skater Brian Joubert, Track and Field Sprinter Christine Arron and the former French Cross-Country skier Vincent Vittoz. Damart launched an offshoot brand Damart Sport, offering technical and innovative sports clothing.
Damart helped the British troops in Iraq and Afghanistan by donating its famous thermals, to an initiative called Support Our Soldiers. They supplied almost 10,000 sets to troops overseas.
After five years of research, Damart developed its Océalis technology. This was the first bioactive textile which interacts with the body to regulate body temperature. This innovation is protected with a European patent. Damart uses its innovative Océalis technology for its Body Activ 3 range. This is a must-have for winter sports, is exhibited in Paris as part of Futurotextiles exhibition.
Damart is continually adjusting its collections to inspire fun, vitality, innovation and care through its products and its customer relationships. Offering style and comfort, the new collections offer "trendy" styles, using materials with a sensual touch. A ready-to-wear collection that's full of innovation with brands such as "Océalis" (refreshing action), "Lineastyl" (moisturising or slimming) and "Climatyl" (protection against the ever-changing weather).
Although the Damart headquarters is to be found in France, the company also has operations in the UK, Belgium, Australia, Luxembourg, Switzerland and the United States. Also, it has partnerships in Australia, Cyprus and Spain to distribute its products to over 10 million customers worldwide. Damart is constantly adjusting collections to inspire fun, vitality, innovation and care through products and their customer relationships.
Damart is passionate about their customers, and their impressive reputation stems from key benefits offer to their customers: – outstanding value for money, excellent customer service, speedy delivery and comfortable, stylish clothing. When you join Damart, you'll be joining a company that's focused on putting the customer at the heart of everything we do.
Today Damartex consists of 9 individual brands including Damart, Damart Sport, Happy D, Jours Heureux, Afibel, La Maison du Jersey, Delaby, Sedagyl and Coopers of Stortford. They strive to deliver unrivalled quality, value and, most of all, excellent customer service. You'll find the friendly UK based team at the head office in Yorkshire.
Damart's physical UK retail stores have closed, except for its store in Bingley. The brand now operates as a mail order, telephone order and online retailer.
Many of TV film and media stars wear items from Damart's range when filming to keep out the cold conditions involved with filming on location. It has become a staple for busy costume departments who try to keep actors warm during bitterly cold weather conditions.
- What is Damart?
- How Does Damart's Credit Account Work?
- What Products Do Damart Offer in its Catalogue?
- What Damart Catalogue Deals Are Available?
- Benefits of Shopping at Damart
- Disadvantages of Shopping at Damart
- What Payment Methods Do Damart Accept?
- Can I Open an Damart Credit Account with Bad Credit?
- How Does Damart's Delivery and Return Policies Work?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Sources
How Does Damart's Credit Account Work?
The Damart Personal Credit account works like a credit card. You shop at Damart, taking up to 28 days to make sure you're happy before your statement arrives. If you pay the full amount, no interest will be charged.
- You will have to pay interest if you decide to spread the cost without paying the full amount outstanding by the end of the interest-free period, usually 28 days.
- When your monthly statement arrives, check the date payment is expected. Pay the outstanding balance before this date; you won't pay any interest.
- You decide how to pay. Either pay small amounts regularly, pay more when you can or settle early. If you pay more than the minimum payment each month, you will pay less interest overall.
- Give yourself enough time for your payments to be processed; some payment methods take longer than others.
What Products Do Damart Offer in its Catalogue?
Online fashion company Damart, has introduced a new eco-friendly collection using recyclable materials, a first for the brand best-known for easy to wear wearable fashion and innovative thermal range. The 'Regeneration' range supports sustainable fashion, consisting of key pieces designed with comfort and style in mind; they offer anything from staple knits to narrow leg jeans and even footwear.
You are guaranteed to find something this season, whilst helping to protect the planet. This includes the Regeneration straight leg blue jeans (available from £29) which feature a semi-elasticated waist makes these jeans comfortable to wear, with a flattering straight leg fit. The simple navy trainers (£49) in the range have a contrasting white sole and minimal detailing – style with your favourite Regeneration ensemble.
Damart's cable knit jumpers (from £29) and cardigans (from £35) in recycled fabrics are a staple each year during the colder months, Choose from a classic grey or mustard colours, pairing your knit with classic jeans and black boots for a chic look.
Damart introduces invisible thermals to match your skin tone from Damart.
Famous for its thermal ranges, this season (AW20/21) Damart launches a new thermal Invisible collection, combining warmth with invisibility - five different shades to blend to your skin tone. The sleeveless vest works as an invisible layer under any outfit and incorporates stretch for comfort and fit.
Damart's famous Thermolactyl thermal technology traps in warmth. This super-soft top will keep you toasty whatever the weather. It is available in sand, light beige, amber, dark brown and chocolate in sizes XS to 2XL, priced from £19.00.
Damart's dream denim jeans
Damart has a range of jeans called' Perfect Fit' which incorporate stretch for comfort with an invisible tummy control panel for confidence.
With temperatures dropping and winter setting in, Damart's Thermolactyl collection helps you keep warm and cosy during the winter months. Damart offers so much more than clothing base layers, even items for your home!
Homewares are categorised: -
BY ROOM:
- BEDROOM
- BATHROOM
- KITCHEN
- LIVING ROOM
- GARDEN
SLEEP ESSENTIALS:
- DUVET COVERS & BEDSPREADS
- DUVETS & PILLOWS
- PLAIN BEDDING
- BEDROOM ACCESSORIES
TEXTILES:
- CURTAINS
- RUGS
- CUSHIONS
- THROWS
What Damart Catalogue Deals Are Available?
Damart offers regular coupons and promotional deals, and there are currently fifteen active coupons available, including a 25% discount using the code 19183.
Benefits of Shopping at Damart
As well as offering 10% off your first order, free delivery on your first order and safe delivery and returns, it is refreshing that, as a global brand, Damartex are passionate about and committed to diversity, inclusion and fair pay. They are committed to sustainable, ethical procurement throughout their supply chain.
Damart also offers coupons and promo codes. You can use Damart coupons to unlock discounts on their website. There are currently 15 active coupons available including a 25% off offer.
Damart offers the highest standards of quality, safety and regulatory standards, certified by independent specialist laboratories. Damart suppliers conform to European Union Regulation requiring the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals of very high concern (REACH).
It regulates the use of chemicals and their impacts on both human health and the environment. It is closely monitored and policed through regular random testing by Damart at certified laboratories. Damart no longer uses genuine fur in any of their products, and no longer use Angora wool in any of their products.
The 'Damart Way'
Damart offers its customers products combining style and well-being based on innovation and consideration, fundamental to the brand. They promise that the people making their products are treated with respect and manufacturing processes has no negative impact on the environment with no adverse effects on the health and well-being of those who manufactured or consumed them, or on the wider environment.
Their working processes prohibit modern slavery and human trafficking in their organisation and their supply chain.
United Nations Global compact members, Damart is committed to the following ten principles of human rights, labour, the environment and anti-corruption. They work together with UN agencies, labour groups and civil society to progress these principles and share our best practices every year.
Damart supports, protects and respects international human rights, ensuring that they are not complicit in any human rights abuses. Damart upholds the right to collective bargaining and wishes to end all forms of forced and compulsory labour. They look to abolish child labour and eliminate discrimination in respect of employment and occupation.
The company support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges, undertaking initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility for developing environmentally friendly technologies. They work against corruption in all its forms, including extortion and bribery.
Disadvantages of Shopping at Damart
Damart's clothing sizing can sometimes be inaccurate. And, although they advertise free returns, in reality, customers do have to pay for their own return postage! One disgruntled customer stated that on Damart's website, it says that any returns are at the customer's cost even for faulty goods!
Damart's advertising campaigns haven't always proved to be advantageous. In 2005 Damart caused a bit of a controversy by sending a promotional offer to many of its elderly customers. This was disguised as a final reminder letter. The communication was entitled 'Final reminder from Damart's financial director' with 'Account Settlement' emblazoned in red across the page.
The promotion backfired on them losing many customers who were shocked and disgruntled that such a respected company had stooped to such heights.
What Payment Methods Do Damart Accept?
Damart offers four payment methods:
Pay Online
Damart accepts all major debit/card cards excluding American Express and Solo.
An Automated Balance Enquiry and Payment Service
This is a 24 hour automated service giving you the ability to check your Damart Select Personal Account balance or make a payment any time. Payments are processed immediately showing up on your Personal Account the same day, or pay fully by using your Mastercard, Visa or Debit card.
Direct Debit
You can set up a Direct Debit to make payments online. You can view your online statement at any time and check your statement due dates for complete control and peace of mind. Alternatively, if you prefer, they can also send you a Direct Debit Instruction form which you can complete and return by post to the company.
It usually takes 14 days from your application being received for Damart to process your instruction. You will receive confirmation in the post as soon as the Direct Debit has been set up on your account. You can change the amount you pay by Direct Debit at any time, or even cancel the instruction.
Pay by Cheque / Postal Order
Damart can only accept UK registered cards. You can still pay by cheque or postal order.
Can I Open an Damart Credit Account with Bad Credit?
No. The Damart Personal Account lets you buy goods from the Damart or Sedagyl catalogues on credit, up to your credit limit. Damart set your credit limit based on your credit status and by assessing what you can afford, up to a maximum £500.
How Does Damart's Delivery and Return Policies Work?
Damart offers free returns and exchanges. Standard delivery charges from Damart are £3.99, and there is an express delivery option for when you need an item in a hurry which costs £6.99. Delivery charges will be displayed at checkout with every order.
Returns can be made by arranging a courier or at the post office, and you can drop your parcel off at any branch or via a my Hermes ParcelShop. These are conveniently open seven days a week.
Conclusion
Damart is a well respected, highly ethical brand with a deep concern for the environment; it's customers and its workforce. It works closely with its three chosen charities to raise awareness and funding. It has a large following of senior customers and a reputation for its thermal clothing, although it has recently branched into other areas such as footwear and jeans.
FAQs
Q: How do you apply for a Damart catalogue?
A: Complete the request form (look online) or call the Freephone number and Damart will send you the latest catalogue within the next 7-10 working days.
Q: Do I have to pay the full amount when ordering on Damart?
A: No, you can use your Damart Select Personal Account can spread the payments over a set period of time or set up a Direct Debit payment to pay the minimum statement amount, any fixed amount, or pay in full.
Q: How often will I be billed?
A: Monthly statements are posted or emailed to you, and the first will be sent seven days after you place your order.
Q: When is payment due; what happens if I miss my payment date?
A: The date your payment is due is shown on your statement. Should you miss a payment contact Damart to arrange payment. The comapny will send you an email confirmation when they have processed your payment.
Q: Can I close a Damart account?
A: You can close your Damart Select Personal Account at any time. Simply pay off any amounts that are outstanding on your account and notify the company in writing.
