JOHNSTONS OF ELGIN CONFIRM MAIN SPONSORSHIP OF SCOTTISH THISTLE AWARDS
21 June 2023 • Sarah Medcraf
Johnstons of Elgin, the world-renowned luxury cashmere and fine woollens manufacturer, returns for the second year as the main sponsor of the Scottish Thistle Awards.
The brand, which has mills based in Elgin and Hawick, has been a keen supporter of Scotland’s premier tourism and events awards for several years.
The Scottish Thistle Awards are an opportunity to shine a spotlight on individual businesses and people working within the tourism and events industry in Scotland, celebrating excellence within this vital part of the Scottish economy, which is worth around £11.5 billion.
"Johnstons of Elgin are delighted to return as headline sponsors of the Scottish Thistle Awards, highlighting the individuals and businesses making a difference in the sphere of tourism. Responsible tourism is at the heart of this year’s event, which is particularly poignant for us in the year we became a certified B Corp, meeting stringent criteria and working towards building a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
The Scottish Thistle Awards will recognise innovation, excellence and success in an industry essential to us and other luxury brands. Proud of our long-standing relationship with VisitScotland, we are thrilled to celebrate the unique experiences and spirit of our beautiful country."
George McNeil, Johnstons of Elgin Managing Director of Retail
Johnstons of Elgin is one of Scotland’s oldest family-owned businesses, celebrating 225 years in 2022. The business, which holds a Royal Warrant, have been experts in the world’s natural fibres since 1797, combining exceptional quality and craftmanship with a focus on their communities.
The brand craft the finest cashmere and merino wool products in their Elgin and Hawick mills – Elgin being Scotland’s only vertical weaving mill.
Johnstons of Elgin recently achieved a B Corporation status in recognition of the brand’s commitment to being a force for change in the social and environmental sphere. Becoming a B Corporation reinforces the community purpose that has been a feature of the company for generations.
Attaining B Corporation status requires business transparency emphasising environmental and social factors. The business must benefit all stakeholders, the suppliers, and employees whose lives depend on the company, not just shareholders.
Johnstons of Elgin recently achieved a 5-Star Quality Assurance (QA) grading for its Elgin visitor attraction for the 28th year in a row. The Hawick Mill was awarded a 5-Star Visitor Attraction Award in 2012, and the St Andrews store has held a 5-Star Award since 2013.
Visitors to the Elgin site can experience some of the thirty processes involved in crafting a single scarf and learn more about the families that have shaped the business over the decades.
There are a new range of tours available at both Elgin and Hawick including, the Discovery Experience, Afternoon Tea Experience and the Craftmanship Experience. Visitors can also explore the latest collections in the shop in both Elgin and Hawick or visit the on-site restaurant and coffee shop.