Historic cashmere firm among Scots businesses celebrated in latest Queen’s Awards

Cashmere producer Johnstons of Elgin, which ranks as one of Scotland’s oldest family businesses, has seen its green credentials recognised with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

It marks the fourth award for the Moray-based manufacturer, having previously landed the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement in 1978,1994 and 2002.

As well as its centuries-old approach to working with natural, renewable, and biodegradable fibres, the firm – established in 1797 – has been praised for its wider industry commitments to limiting environmental impact, animal welfare, its people and approach to sustainable textiles manufacturing.

Chief executive Simon Cotton said: “When we talk about sustainability at Johnstons of Elgin, we try to cover every aspect of our product’s life and truly value every thread.

Simon Cotton is the appropriately named chief executive of Johnstons of Elgin, the producer of luxury cashmere and fine woollens. Picture: Adam Warner

“Throughout our 224-year history we have stayed true to this ethos through animal welfare initiatives, grassland preservation, fair work, reducing manufacturing waste, and so much more.”

Other Scottish firms collecting a Queen’s Award this year include Edinburgh-based architectural practice Kettle Collective, which was honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.

This year, 205 businesses representing every part of the UK and a diverse range of sectors have been recognised as among the best in the country. Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants will be presenting the awards to businesses locally throughout the year.

Business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: “The past year has been a tough time for many businesses across the UK, which is why it is more important than ever to celebrate the achievements of our wealth creators and recognise the contributions they make to our communities.”

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