Jamieson’s Spinning Boosts Production with Innovative Investment

The operators of Shetland’s only commercial woollen mill, Jamieson’s Spinning (Shetland) Ltd, have announced a significant enhancement in production capabilities following a major investment. The mill has installed an advanced vacuum fettling system for its carding machines, a move that automates the previously manual cleaning process and reduces downtime by 75 percent. This upgrade comes with the support of over £32,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), marking a pivotal moment for the mill’s operational efficiency.

This investment is expected to lead to enhanced production efficiency, improved yarn quality, and a more favorable working environment for employees. Additionally, it is anticipated to create 1.5 new jobs, further contributing to the local economy. HIE’s area manager, Katrina Wiseman, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is a great example of how innovation can support rural business growth. We’re proud to support a project that enhances productivity and international competitiveness and also helps sustain jobs and communities on Shetland’s West Side.”

Enhancing Shetland’s Textile Heritage

Established in 1981, Jamieson’s processes Shetland wool from fleece to finished yarn, offering an impressive range of over 400 colours in five different weights. With this latest investment, the mill is set to reinforce its commitment to Shetland’s rich textile heritage. Garry Jamieson, a representative of the mill, described the new vacuum system as “an amazing addition to our carding machines.” He emphasized the importance of such upgrades, stating that they can extend the lifespan of the machinery while making tasks easier for staff.

Jamieson noted the physical demands of manual fettling, explaining, “This should make a big difference to our great staff. We are now replacing card cloth to further improve our yarn quality as the new fettling system doesn’t damage the cloth whilst cleaning – another great bonus.” Over the past decade, the mill has undertaken several projects aimed at improving efficiency, but Jamieson highlighted that this is the largest investment to date.

Encouraging Local Business Innovation

HIE is actively encouraging other Shetland businesses with innovative ideas to reach out and explore potential support for their growth ambitions. The organization’s commitment to fostering local enterprise is evident in its backing of projects like Jamieson’s, which not only aim to enhance productivity but also contribute to the sustainability of local jobs and communities.

As Jamieson’s Spinning moves forward with its new technology, the future looks promising for both the mill and Shetland’s textile industry. The combination of enhanced efficiency, improved working conditions, and the potential for job creation underscores the positive impact of this investment on the local economy.