The Stornoway Harris Tweed mill, Kenneth Mackenzie’s, has been taken over by its manager.
Outgoing owner Brian Haggas is retiring and has gifted the business to Alex Lockerby.
Mr Haggas said: “As from today Kenneth Mackenzie Ltd will be wholly owned by Mr Alex Lockerbie.
“Alex and I have worked together for a number of years.
“He is an exceptionally able, totally honest and a superb man and manager.
“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.”
Mr Haggas added: “Harris Tweed fabric is an integral part of the Western Isles and as such should be owned and produced by the islands and any profits should remain there to enhance the life of the people.
“I wish you all much happiness, success and the very best of luck.”
Alex Lockerby said: “I am astounded by this act of generosity by Brian Haggas, also overwhelmed by the confidence he has shown in me.
“We have worked together over a number of years to re-
“Our relationship was always one of mutual trust and we were very much on the same page as to how the rebuilding process should be implemented.
“Throughout the process he has shown true Yorkshire grit and integrity, and I and the staff at Kenneth Mackenzie would like to extend our warmest thanks and gratitude to him.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to wish both himself and (sales director) Howard Pighills a happy and healthy retirement.”
New owner for Stornoway Harris Tweed mill as Brian Haggas retires
2 September 2019
Alex Lockerby is the new mill owner