Crombie keeps out the cold winds of recession

Crombie, the gentleman's outfitter that built its brand on the Crombie Covert Coat, is to open concessions in 11 more House of Fraser stores next month. A Crombie spokesman said demand for the garment – which started life as a hunting coat at the start of the 20th century and is still a snitch at £675 – is booming despite lean times.

The Crombie wool and tweed business began in Aberdeen in 1805 but became famous when it made the navy blue King version for King George VI. It's been a hit with presidents, from Eisenhower to Gorbachev, as well as Mods and Teds in the 1960s and a favourite with a long line of celebrities from Hugh Grant to David Bowie and is worn here by actor David Jason in Only Fools and Horses. For now, the Crombie concessions are only going to be open during the winter months.