Invest in Scottish textiles

Scotland’s international reputation for producing luxurious, innovative textiles means investing in the local industry comes with certain responsibilities. The quality manufacturing, fine materials and pioneering designs that keep the industry strong mean that purchaser expectations are high. Those that invest are rewarded with opportunities for further international trade through Scotland’s established production and export channels.

Where to invest

Scotland's strengths lie in fashion, interiors and technical/performance products.

Fashion in Scotland is dominated by the luxury, niche brands with the likes of Johnstons, Pringle and Hawick Cashmere calling Scotland home. Their production of tweed, cashmere and tartan has opened doors for growing companies to establish a reputation beyond the textiles that make Scotland famous.

As Scotland’s fashionable materials gain authority, the furnishing fabric industry branches further into international markets. Coverings for hotel, restaurant, transport and home interiors are a sought-after commodity for both luxury and technically demanding developments.

The technical textiles industry in Scotland offers investment opportunities through businesses that supply global markets with products such as knitted heart grafts, NASA space tethers and Formula One car parts. The scope for using textile materials is rapidly expanding thanks in part to the industry's close links with key sectors like aerospace, energy and life sciences.

Support for investors

SDI’s services for investors connect them with the suppliers and business developers that’ll safeguard the venture.

Marketing professionals are also on hand to develop strategies and set achievable communication plans.

Collaboration with textile academics gives access to the specialist skills that keep innovation strong in Scotland.

Underpinning all these services with market trend information, SDI gives investors a faster route to getting established in Scotland.