A new strategy for the Scottish textiles industry has been launched, designed to position Scotland's textiles as a dynamic and innovative sector.
The strategy aims to build on Scotland's long history and reputation in producing high quality textiles, whilst reinforcing its strengths in design and innovation to enable it to compete in the international marketplace.
Developed by the industry, in partnership with trade unions and Scottish Enterprise's Scottish Textiles team, the strategy lays out a plan to increase the contribution the textiles industry will makes to the Scottish economy, by increasing the number of larger, more competitive companies, investing in research and development and building global brands.
The three main components of the strategy are to increase Scotland's international profile as a centre for design and technical textiles; improve collaboration between textiles companies and with other sectors to exploit opportunities; and strengthen the workforce that already exists.
Commenting on the plan, James Sugden, chairman of the Scottish Textiles Manufacturing Association, said, "The textiles industry in Scotland has moved a long way from the 1970s and 1980s. Investment in technology means that a mill is now a quiet, high tech environment, while an emphasis on design has meant that Scottish companies are working in specific niche and luxury markets and supplying some of the world's leading couture houses as well as developing already well known Scottish brands,” adding, "The high level of skills within the sector is also helping to fuel growth within the technical textiles sector, with some world leaders in medical and performance textiles based in Scotland.”
There are currently 450 textiles companies in Scotland, which are mainly located around the Scottish Borders, East Ayrshire, Angus and Renfrewshire. The sector has an annual turnover of £1.084 billion and export sales of £390 million and employs more than 17,000 people.
