Respected old hand bags a new enterprise
For Bill Voulgaris, a proud Greek businessman who has trodden a long and steady path through Australia's ragtrade, a respectable funeral and memorial service were simply not enough.
Inspired by the years of knowledge handed down to him by his late father and "mentor" Dimitri, Voulgaris has named and dedicated his latest venture into the handbag industry after him.
"My father migrated from Greece in 1962 to Australia and I was about nine years old. He passed away in 2004, he was my mentor so for me to remember him, I launched the brand after his name."
No newcomer to the trade, Voulgaris said his experience dates back to 1969 when he first worked as a framer and clicker for Australian handbag brand Lanza. More recently, he capped off a 12 year stint with Cellini handbags after deciding he had enough know-how to play the game alone.
Although formally set to launch in July, his business is currently supplying to a limited number of specialty and boutique stores in Sydney's Newtown and inner-city hub. Targetting the lower to middle end of the market, prices for the first collection of handbags range from $30 to $100.
Including totes, clutches and purses in a range of natural and man-made fabrications, Dimitri is entirely manufactured in China with Voulgaris largely sourcing his style inspirations from the European and American markets.
Looking to firmly establish the brand locally over the next year, Voulgaris said he had high hopes for its success in Australia.
"Obviously it won't be easy but from here onwards it will be hard work. If I have to work 60 hour weeks, I will do it because I'm here for the long term."