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News / Jamieson’s seeks international growth

HIE account manager Kirsten Nicolson pictured with Garry and Peter Jamieson at Jamieson’s Spinning in Sandness. Photo: HIE/Ben Mullay.

A SANDNESS-based wool company which started five generations ago is set to increase international sales and create new jobs after securing new grant funding

Jamieson’s Spinning operates the islands’ only commercial woollen mill and employs 15 people in the tiny village on the west side of Shetland.

It has secured £33,708 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to help drive up international sales by implementing a new marketing plan and digitising product tracking within the factory.

The project, which is expected to create two new jobs in the next three years, aims to deliver an increase in turnover and provide a boost to international sales.

The family-owned business buys Shetland wool and completes all stages of production at the mill before turning it into Shetland yarn in five different weights and more than 400 colours.

The company also manufactures a range of Shetland tweeds, rugs and blankets using weaving looms.

Garry Jamieson of Jamieson’s Spinning said: “We are delighted to receive this assistance from HIE. We have undertaken a number of improvements to the factory this year to increase efficiency and this grant will help us to continue our growth in the hand knitting market.”

HIE account manager Kirsten Nicolson: “We are very pleased to support this project as we recognise the potential for Jamieson’s Spinning’s products to reach further global markets which will lead to new jobs at Sandness.

“The company is a valuable employer in a rural area and has a key role to play in the cultural attraction of Shetland as a place to visit. By creating valuable employment opportunities, the company will also help strengthen resilience among local communities.

 

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