‘It’s business as usual’ pledge new owners of ManninKilt

Laxey Woollen Mill acquires successful Manx business

The importance of preserving the Island’s heritage is widely acknowledged, though in practice it’s all too rarely a factor in commercial decisions and transactions. It’s therefore good to see the future of a small but highly successful Manx enterprise secured after the acquisition of ManninKilt by the Laxey Woollen Mill.

The move follows the decision by owners Malcolm and Joy Wells to move towards retirement – though they will continue to be involved with the family’s other successful business – Celtic Gold – which will continue to operate from its current premises in Michael Street Peel.

ManninKilt was started as a home enterprise back in 1997 and has grown steadily: ‘We found that people were very enthusiastic about using Manx tartan for weddings and special occasions and proud of the sense of identity it gave,’explained Malcolm. Today there are two key elements to the business – kilt hire and made to measure – both of which are extremely popular:‘We produce made to measure kilts for people all over the world,’ said Malcolm. ‘We recently sold a kilt to a customer in Manchester who flew over specially for his fittings.’

The good news for anybody thinking of hiring or buying a kilt is that it will be very much business as usual for ManninKilt. The operation has been moved lock, stock and barrel to Trafalgar House in Nelson Street, Douglas: ‘The kilt business is now operating from the first floor of the building and the plan is to protect and nurture ManninKilt as a brand, said ManninKilt’s new owner. ‘It’s important to maintain continuity as a sign of respect to Joy and Malcolm who originally took the leap of faith and started the business.’

Skilled tailor Claire Boswell will be responsible for the day to day running of the business. John Wood of Laxey Woollen Mills said he was delighted to bring ManninKilt into the Mill’s ownership: ‘It’s a natural fit for the Mill and as we were already supplying Malcolm and Joy with their Manx tartan cloth, it was entirely logical.’
For more information you can call in to Trafalgar House in Douglas, telephone 678105, e-mail info@manninkilt.co.uk, or visit the website at www.manninkilt.co.uk