This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Wendy Alexander launches cutting edge business service for Scottish textiles
31/01/2001
Cutting edge communications can support a new era for Scottish textiles said Enterprise Minister Wendy Alexander today.
Ms Alexander chaired the third meeting of the Scottish Textiles Forum where she announced a raft of actions to boost the industry. These include:
- a new Scottish Textiles Network website -with over 1000 companies
- Scottish Enterprise to launch a 3 year Textiles Action Plan - led by Scottish Enterprise Borders
- A launch in Borders shortly of a major initiative to commercialise new textile technologies
- support for companies attending London Fashion Week and support for the cashmere club
- and training programmes to boost textiles skills
- a major Scottish Textiles promotion conference to be held in the Spring
The website carries details of over 1000 textiles companies in Scotland and will promote business to business e-commerce. The Harris Tweed website has shown the way.
In the Borders in the next fortnight she will launch the £1.2m Technitex initiative - funded by a government Faraday award.
The Forum today will focus on the future marketing of Scottish textiles - such as cashmere - and government assist help to move up market to niche areas and the skills it will require.
No longer will we make hundreds and hundreds of the same garment - now we are specialising in high value products like cashmere. Companies like Pringle who I am meeting tomorrow are showing the way.
New technologies are being championed in the Borders where Klitra have won a £70,000 contract to train engineering technicians to use the high-tech machines, needed for the high tech textiles future.
Ms Alexander said:
"Web enabled technologies are providing opportunities to repackage and represent Scotland's traditional textiles and patterns.
"Textiles is key sector for the Scottish economy employing around 30,000 people. The industry has internationally recognised brand images.
"Scottish textiles designs like Tartan and Paisley are known throughout the world. The internet is a key to the future for trading and marketing.
"The Scottish Executive is committed to working closely with the industry to ensure a vibrant and prosperous future. Scottish Enterprise Borders will double the number of dedicated staff working specifically with the textile sector.
News Release: SE0192/2001
31 Jan 2001