The emphasis on these markets has led to some crucial developments for the company, including the making of bespoke cricket sweaters and of semi-fashioned ladies knitted jackets for corporatewear. Both of these have been major successes, says Carden. “We bought new knitting machines, which are more flexible than the old-style machines. It means we can do small quantities in bespoke colourways – really important for the cricket sweaters, for example.”

But Balmoral has not buried its head in the sand and believes the reason other manufacturers have closed is largely a result of imports. “We have made a conscious decision to offer UK-made and offshore- made knitwear,” adds Carden. “We use our own production to give flexibility, small quantities and quick turn-around.We use our off-shore partner for larger contracts.”

The introduction of Papini fleeces to the range works in exactly the same way. Balmoral carries stock of plain and multi-coloured fleeces, but can also make special styles to order, either in the UK in small quantities, or off-shore for larger contracts.

Tel: 01900 829 229

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