For over 50 years, the Strathmore Woollen Company Ltd has been a proud fixture in Forfar, operating out of the original weaving mill’s service building (Pirnie Mill). They’re the go-to for over 400 premium-quality, Scottish tartans, offering a fantastic “made-up” service for everything from kilts and trousers for gents, ladies, and children, to all the accessories you could need. While 70% of their business is in the UK, they also have a strong 30% in exports.

When owner Christine Donaldson took the reins in 2018, things started to shift. Many of their long-standing UK customers were retiring and closing their doors, and the general economic climate meant sales were on a decline. Strathmore Woollen knew they needed to pivot, find new customers around the world, and most importantly, protect their loyal team.

Angus Council’s SME Start & Grow Grant scheme allowed Strathmore Woollen to attend Scotland’s Trade Fair at the SECC in Glasgow – the only Scottish trade fair of its kind in the UK. They arrived with a brand-new, eye-catching exhibition stand, complete with fresh promotional materials and business cards ready for potential customers.

Owner Christine Donaldson said: “This grant has been an invaluable tool at what is proving to be an ongoing very difficult economic period for small businesses. Staff from Business Gateway and Angus Council were approachable, knowledgeable and encouraging with regards to applying for funding. The grant allowed us to show the world that we are very much alive and ready to grow our business, giving us renewed enthusiasm to increase our sales in 2025.”

Attending Scotland’s Trade Fair was a game-changer. It put Strathmore Woollen directly in front of overseas businesses who all share a deep connection to Scotland – whether through ancestors, clan heritage, or simply a love for our country. The Scottish diaspora in places like the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand is massive, and it’s exciting to see a younger generation taking over these businesses in the post-Covid era. Despite a somewhat challenging national economic forecast, Strathmore Woollen is confidently forecasting an increase in their 2025 turnover.

The Angus Council SME Start & Grow Business Grants were funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). Grants were delivered by Angus Council’s Invest in Angus team, supported by Business Gateway.