Scots firm fashioning a future in emerging markets

CASHMERE clothing maker James Johnston & Co yesterday unveiled plans to expand into emerging markets in Asia and the Middle East after stitching together a £5 million funding deal with Lloyds.

The family-run company, which traces its roots back to 1797, employs 450 people at its head office and factory in Elgin and a further 250 at a manufacturing plant at Hawick.

James Johnston & Co, better known as Johnstons of Elgin, has bought looms capable of producing whole jumpers rather than panels that then need to be sewn together.

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The company is also taking on graduates and other trainees as it looks to bring more young people into the clothing production industry.

Graham Fiddes, director of Lloyds Corporate Markets branch in Aberdeen, said: “We are proud to be able to fund the company’s latest expansion plan as the support we have provided will undoubtedly create a positive ripple effect in rural communities in Scotland, both in the form of jobs and new orders down the supply chain.”

James Johnston & Co already has offices in London, Dusseldorf, Tokyo and the US, along with shops in Elgin, St Andrews and Northumberland

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