The owner of the oldest surviving Harris Tweed mill has ensured that the company’s fortunes will remain in the Western Isles after relinquishing the reins.
Textile magnate Brian Haggas, 88, has handed control of the Stornoway-based Kenneth Mackenzie Ltd firm to locally-born managing director Alex Lockerby.
Mr Haggas purchased the company in 2006 and, despite early concerns about his decision to reduce the number of tweed patterns produced, the mill now accounts for 38% of the industry’s output.
The firm is one of three remaining Harris Tweed operations still remaining, and can trace its origins back to 1906.
It employs 30 people and provides work for about 50 double-width weavers.
Mr Lockerby has worked in the industry since moving back to Lewis in 1976.
He said that, under his stewardship, the company’s output will undergo “some tweaks”.
He said: “There are areas that need addressing. We are very male-orientated, and want to expand into women’s fashion as we are a little light in that area.
“But the future is good. We have healthy orders – we produce 80 to 100 rolls of cloth a week and it is at a sustainable level.
“I am 65 and Brian only thought of retiring at 88, so there is a long way ahead to follow. I am looking forward to it.”
Mr Haggas said: “Alex and I have worked together for a number of years. He is exceptionally able, totally honest and a superb man and manager. We have never had a wrong word.
“I have come to believe that the iconic name of Harris Tweed belongs to the people of the Western Isles.
“It is not something for financial vultures to buy and strip out all the cash leaving the company bankrupt.
“Harris Tweed fabric is an integral part of the Western Isles and, as such, should be owned and produced by the islanders. Any profits should remain there to enhance the life of the people.”
Lorna Macaulay, chief executive of the Harris Tweed Authority (HTA), said: “HTA wishes to congratulate Alex Lockerby and his staff at the Kenneth Mackenzie mill.
“The HTA has expressed to Brian Haggas our appreciation for his contribution to the Harris Tweed industry over the last decade and beyond and we wish him a very happy retirement.
“Our industry is strong, confident and providing year-round employment for 300-plus people.”
