17 Jan 2000
The quality of Scotland’s textiles has long been renowned, but it is the industry’s use of technology and design that will take Scottish textiles into the 21stcentury. That was the message today from Scotland Office Minister Brian Wilson as he visited a number of textile firms in the Borders.
Brian Wilson said:
"Here in the Borders, people know how much is dependant on cashmere and other high quality knitwear, with many firms exporting strongly in foreign markets.
"Competing on the global stage is never easy, but the quality of knitwear and textiles produced in Scotland speaks for itself. I was pleased to see Scottish firms selling to the world at the International Menswear Trade Fair in Italy at the weekend. The Government is committed to supporting such ventures wherever it can.
"It is long acknowledged that Scottish textiles cannot compete worldwide on price alone. At the same time our strengths are in quality, design, and new and innovative products which we must promote abroad as well as at home.
"Scotland’s textile companies are already making innovative developments to keep ahead. In the face of setbacks elsewhere, there are success stories. Clan Douglas had its largest ever turnover in 1999, leading to potential expansion, while companies like Lochcarron of Scotland and Robert Noble are developing new yarns and cloths, attracting the attention of top fashion designers along the way.
"I hope that companies will build on this success, to take Scottish textiles from strength to strength and safeguard the important contribution they make to the local and Scottish economies."
NOTES FOR NEWS EDITORS
Mr Wilson today visited textile firms Clan Douglas in Hawick, Lochcarron of Scotland in Galashiels, and Robert Noble in Peebles. He also visited the Scottish Borders Studio, a Scottish Borders Enterprise initiative.