The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Leadership changes at Perth-based textiles firm
Blair Macnaughton stays on as chairman as new MD is welcomed
Long-established Perth-based textiles business Macnaughton Holdings is under new management.
James Dracup has replaced Blair Macnaughton as managing director of the 70-employee manufacturer and wholesaler of premium Scottish-made textiles.
Its brands include Isle Mill and House of Edgar, Scotland’s leading highlandwear supplier.
From its base in Perth, it has a weaving operation in Keith and a sewing and kilt-making factory in Paisley.
It no longer owns the Macnaughton of Pitlochry outfitters shop which it sold in 2003.
Mr Macnaughton has remained on the board and has become chairman of the company which will continue to be owned by his family.
He said relinquishing the managing director’s role allows him to retire from daily management but retain an overall involvement as chairman.
Macnaughton Holdings’ two non-executive directors – chairman George Hay, a partner with Dundeebased accountancy firm Henderson Loggie, and Geoff Crerar – will leave the board in March.
Mr Macnaughton said: “I’m naturally sad to be stepping down from my executive role but I’m delighted that the company has been able to secure a worthy successor to take my place leading the management team.”
He thanked Mr Hay and Mr Crerar for their wise and independent counsel over many years.
Mr Dracup, who has been managing director of Johnstons of Elgin, said: “I am delighted to make a return to Scotland and have the opportunity to lead one of the country’s most respected manufacturers.
“I hope to build on the foundations that Blair has laid, and continue to develop international markets for the wonderful products made by our team in Scotland.”
The company was first established by Alexander Macnaughton at the end of the 18th Century on the banks of Loch Tay.
It moved to Pitlochry in 1835, when his grandson William took advantage of the village’s improved communications.
The company prospered for the next 150 years, with sons, grandsons and great-grandsons all taking the helm.
Blair Macnaughton, a seventh generation family member, led a management buy-out in 1987, returning the company to direct family ownership.
A Scottish textiles success story, Macnaughton has secured business around the world, including palaces, opera houses and the White House.