A LONG established textile business has passed outside of family control after being bought by its management for an undisclosed sum.
Robert Mackie of Scotland, formed in 1845, is best known for making Scottish bonnets such as Balmorals and Glengarries for military regiments, bands and clan associations.
It also supplies hats, gloves and other knitwear to a range of retailers including House of Bruar.
Managing director Graeme Haddow, who had worked at the company for 12 years, has completed a deal to purchase the firm from members of the Mackie family.
The deal was backed by a six-figure sum provided by UK Steel Enterprise, the Tata Steel business support subsidiary. Others involved included Barclays, accountancy firm IDS & Co and law firm Morisons.
Robert Mackie operates from a 25,000 square feet factory in Stewarton, Ayrshire, where it employs 60 people and distributes its products around the world.
Mr Haddow said he had pursued the deal as he wanted to maintain the company’s heritage and make sure it continued to play an important part in the local community.
He said: “I have been with the company for more than 12 years and when I was offered first refusal of the acquisition it made sense for us to continue the Robert Mackie brand name here in Ayrshire.
“We’re very proud of our 170 year heritage and have strong values and traditions to up-keep. I’m excited to be at the forefront of this next era.”
Scott Webb, regional executive at UKSE, said: “Robert Mackie of Scotland has a fantastic history, and as a longstanding profitable business, this is the exact type of business we look to invest in. With their high-quality products, we look forward to working with Graeme as he takes the helm and drives the company forward.”
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