The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
New owner for famous Forfar tartan company
FABRIC: 69-yearold Strathmore Woollen Company sold after search for buyer that will sustain and develop the tartan brand
One of Scotland’s four authentic tartan suppliers has changed hands after an extensive search for a suitable buyer.
Strathmore Woollen Company, based in Forfar, has announced the sale of the 69-year-old business to Christine Donaldson, who has worked in the textiles industry for the last 30 years.
The firm has been run by David Cowley, who took ownership of the tartan firm in 1983, and Jonathan Brown, who joined the board in 2006 and became managing director in 2016.
They will continue in their roles to ensure a seamless transition.
A spokesman said: “The directors have been looking for a successor for their business for some time.
“Their prime objective has always been to sustain and develop the traditional tartan brand which has been built up into a successful worldwide business throughout their stewardship over the past 35 years.
“This ambition can now be achieved. Christine is originally from our local area and has worked within the Scottish Borders textiles industry for the last 30 years.
“Her commercial experience and enthusiasm for supporting Scottish businesses make her ideally suited to ensure the continuity of our long established company.”
Strathmore Woollen Company was established in 1949 as a partnership between the Don Brothers, Buist & Co of Forfar and Ballantynes of Peebles. Under the new owner, the business will continue as normal, trading from its long established location at Station Works on North Street and retaining the company’s experienced and loyal staff.
The firm, which is renowned for its premium quality woven tartan fabric and associated products, has developed an extensive customer base in Britain and overseas with around half of the company’s products exported.