13 Jan 2000
Quality and design can secure a healthy future for Britain’s textile and clothing industries, Scotland Office Minister Brian Wilson said today, prior to visiting Florence in support of companies exhibiting at the first of the major trade shows for the autumn and winter collections.
‘Pitti Immagine’, the Italian International Menswear Trade Fair, will attract more than 50 UK design houses and clothing manufacturers, including top household names from Scotland such as Ballantyne Cashmere and Johnston’s of Elgin.
Before leaving for Florence, Mr Wilson said:
"There need be no sense of defeatism about prospects for these industries in spite of the job losses which some companies have experienced. We also have many success stories to celebrate and great opportunities to promote our quality products.
"Britain cannot compete in terms of price alone against countries where labour costs are a fraction of those which apply here. That, however, is only a small part of the overall picture. Our strengths lie in quality and design which we must promote even more strongly in every market of the world.
"That is the way to maintain successful companies and healthy levels of employment within an exciting and creative sector of our economy.
"The excellent products manufactured by Daks Simpson, with whom I have been working closely, will be on show in Florence. This is an inspiring example of a company which has not submitted to a temporary set-back but which is making a tenacious effort to open up new markets at home and abroad.
"I am pleased to have this opportunity of promoting the British industry at one of the world’s most prestigious menswear shows. And I am particularly pleased that so many of Scotland’s finest products will be on show, including cashmere knitwear and Harris Tweed."
NOTE FOR NEWS EDITORS
The British presence at "Pitti Immagine" is sponsored by the British Menswear Guild who are celebrating their 40thAnniversary, and is supported by DTI. Mr Wilson will speak to a reception attended by buyers from all over the world and will tour the stands of exhibiting companies.