A homecoming with purpose
"Ipswich has a spirit and a promise I believe in," says Hubert, reflecting on his decision to launch in the town. "By opening here, I hope to contribute to its bright future."
After years collaborating with iconic brands like Brioni, Burberry, and Ralph Lauren, Hubert could have chosen any location for his venture. But the pull of his hometown proved irresistible.
As an award-winning business leader who received the King's Award for Enterprise in 2023, Hubert's return to Ipswich represents more than just a business decision—it's a statement of belief in the town's potential.
Craftsmanship with character
James St. Peter's, located on St Peter's Street in the town centre, embodies Hubert's philosophy of "craftsmanship with character"—a blend of Italian craftsmanship and British individuality.
"We design a curated collection of contemporary classic menswear in small batches, working directly with trusted makers in Napoli to ensure provenance, quality, and fit," Hubert explains.
The store's own label, Antonio Bellini, exemplifies this philosophy, offering exceptional quality without the inflated costs often associated with designer names.
"Each garment is made from the finest fabrics, tailored with precision, and produced under our own labels," says Hubert. "The value lies in the clothing, not branding marketing costs."
A different kind of customer experience
Since the refit and rebrand, James St. Peters has recorded several record-breaking weeks. Hubert attributes this success to a renewed focus on customer experience.
Understanding that time is precious, the store offers private appointments either at home or in the office, with curated selections brought directly to customers. Their most valued service, made-to-measure, provides perfectly tailored pieces designed to meet exact requirements.
"It's not just about selling clothes—it's about delivering an experience rooted in craftsmanship and authenticity," Hubert says.
A vision beyond business
Hubert's ambitions extend beyond his shop doors. He's working to create a dedicated group for Ipswich independents—both day and night-time businesses—to collaborate, network, and support one another.
"I've always found the best way to build vision is to imagine yourself five years ahead, looking back," Hubert shared. "That's exactly what I've done here for Ipswich."
His vision for Ipswich in 2030 is compelling: a town transformed by community action rather than top-down initiatives; a place where heritage and modernity walk side by side; a cultural hub recognised nationally for its creativity and inclusivity.
"Ipswich's revival won't come from one major investment or a single government incentive," he says. "It will come from thousands of small decisions made by those who live and work here—people who chose to reclaim their pride, and rediscover Ipswich."
It's a sentiment he and I share. Ipswich's town centre needs businesses like James St. Peter's and entrepreneurs like Mark. Its future quite literally depends on them.
Looking ahead
With plans to launch an e-commerce business and continuing expansion of their made-to-measure services, James St. Peter's is firmly focused on the future.
For Hubert, he hopes the growth of his own business mirrors his broader hopes for Ipswich over the next five years. He hopes to see the town "transformed into a shining example of what British towns and cities can achieve when they back themselves."
The bottom line
James St. Peter's represents more than just a menswear shop—it embodies a belief in the craftsmanship of our past, but – most importantly – a belief in the future of the town it calls home.
As Hubert puts it in his vision for Ipswich: "Every visit, every purchase, every recommendation is an investment—not just in businesses, but in community, in place, and in possibility."
Visit James St. Peter's at 17 St Peter's Street Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–5pm. Phone: 01473 218658.
