Scots textiles firm is a vision of success after TV deal supported by Clydesdale Bank

17 August 2015

An independent Scottish textiles firm is to produce a range of internationally-available merchandise inspired by the hit TV series Outlander, thanks to Clydesdale Bank.

Ingles Buchan, which is based in Glasgow and operates a mill in Selkirk, is supplying merchandise to be sold across Europe, Canada and the US. The company is currently weaving its first order after receiving a six-figure funding package from Clydesdale.

The deal was delivered by Thomas McPake, relationship manager at Clydesdale Bank’s Glasgow Business and Private Banking Centre.

Founded 50 years ago, Ingles Buchan produces tartan accessories including scarves, ties and waistcoats. It has also created specialist tartans in the past, including tartans for Barcelona, Celtic and Rangers football clubs, and a tartan to commemorate the Papal visit to Scotland in 2010.

Ingles Buchan first became involved with Outlander two years ago when it created five tartans for characters in the hit TV series. As ratings soared, fans began to request the tartans featured on screen.

The Glasgow firm, which has been a customer of Clydesdale Bank since being acquired by its current owners 30 years ago, is creating new jobs as a result of its Outlander merchandise. The company is creating new jobs in Glasgow and has recruited an apprentice at its Selkirk mill, with a further apprentice starting in the autumn. The business purchased the mill, Anthony Haines Textiles Ltd, two years ago to secure its supply.

The Outlander tartans will be woven in Selkirk before products are manufactured from the fabric in Glasgow.

Ingles Buchan was approached to supply tartan to Outlander because its textiles retain a traditional look. Producers of the hit show were keen to draw on the heritage and skilled workforce for which Scottish mills are renowned worldwide.

Colin Brown, managing director at Ingles Buchan, said: “We’re thrilled at becoming a supplier of genuine Outlander tartan merchandise. Producing the range will be a real boost for our business and our plans to grow.

“In recent years Scotland’s textiles industry has been in decline but we have shown that demand remains for high quality, traditional cloth.

“We’re grateful to Clydesdale Bank for recognising and supporting our commitment to producing traditional Scottish textiles and we look forward to working with its knowledgeable team to achieve our growth ambitions.”

Canadian merchandising business AbbyShot, based in Newfoundland, will act as a key supplier of the Outlander-inspired goods produced by Ingles Buchan, which will include kilts, scarves, hats and bags. The firm is renowned worldwide for its official replica clothing ranges, which includes Doctor Who apparel.

Bonnie Edgecombe Cook, President of AbbyShot, said: “AbbyShot is proud to be the provider of the official ‘Outlander’ inspired and replica apparel.

“The Made in Scotland tag is so important to us as well as to the loyal fans of the show, and we couldn't have asked for a better partnership than the one which we have with Ingles Buchan.”

Deyrick Smith, Clydesdale Bank’s Head of Commercial and Small Business in Scotland, said: “We are proud to support Ingles Buchan, a strong and well managed business which is promoting Scotland’s textiles industry on a world stage thanks to its Outlander success.

“We look forward to working in partnership with the business as it grows and develops its product range.

“Our specialist knowledge of and focus on different sectors helps to bring a challenge to the market, giving small and medium sized business the speed and flexibility they require to fulfil their growth ambitions.”

Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks has strengthened its support for UK SMEs by becoming the first to partner with the British Business Bank under its ENABLE Guarantees scheme.

Up to £125m of new lending by Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks, guaranteed by the British Business Bank, will help more small businesses achieve their growth ambitions.