Alexander Manufacturing

Specialising in coat making for the fashion and apparel industry, North Lanarkshire based Alexander Manufacturing plan to utilise their loan to purchase new machinery and software which will aid the business to run more efficiently and also create additional employment opportunities.

After its predecessor Hancock of Scotland went into administration in February 2022, Nadia Alexander and husband Murray saw an opportunity to not only save the business and the jobs of its incredible craftsmen and women, but to develop the business further to put Scotland back on the map for manufacturing skills.

Producing both white label and own brand garments from their unit in Cumbernauld, Alexander Manufacturing currently staffs a team of 18 however with plans to develop the factory to make the manufacturing process more efficient, Nadia aims to double the workforce within the next 12 months which will include modern apprenticeship opportunities for young people that are keen to learn all aspects of the textiles industry.

With big plans for growth and development of the business, Nadia applied to Business Loans Scotland for a loan that would enable her to purchase the assets required and give the business the financial boost needed to kick start its growth journey.

Supporting small and medium sized businesses across Scotland with loans to start-up or grow, BLS offer loans from £25,000 to £250,000 to ensure that commercially viable proposals do not fail from a lack of access to finance.

Fully funded by the Scottish Government, BLS has issued loans to 150 businesses across Scotland to date totalling in excess of £11.4 million with loans being used for various purposes including to raise working capital, invest in office premises, increase marketing activity and to introduce new product lines to name a few.

Alexander Manufacturing Director, Nadia Alexander said:

"Now is the time to invest in onshore garment manufacturing and support the skills and craftsmanship before we lose it forever. Our coat makers have produced outstanding garments for many leading international labels over the years and we aim to retain those skills, and add to them within our house here at Alexander Manufacturing."

Fund Manager for Business Loans Scotland, Andrew Dickson added:

“This is a really exciting time for Alexander Manufacturing and I’m delighted that Business Loans Scotland has been able to play a part in supporting the business with the funds required to grow. Producing these garments in Scotland is excellent for retaining incredible skills within the local workforce whilst also creating additional employment opportunities. I wish Nadia and the team at Alexander Manufacturing continued success for the future.”