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22/08/2003
Textile industry in further turmoil
The Northern Ireland textile industry was facing another blow today after it was revealed that 80 jobs are under threat at a shirt factory in Co Armagh.
Portadown-based Shirtmakers Guild, which manufactures shirts for the upmarket retailer, Thomas Pink, said the jobs were under threat after its main customer withdrew its order.
It is understood Thomas Pink has decided to buy more of its shirts overseas.
The blow comes as trade union representatives held urgent talks to discuss the threat to more than 400 jobs at two Co Down textiles plants of carpet manufacturer, Carpets International.
Trade union representatives are to meet the company's receivers, PricewaterhouseCoopers, on Friday.
Meanwhile, NIO Minister John Spellar has expressed regret over the latest difficulties being experienced by companies in the textiles and clothing industry but warned of further difficulties ahead.
Mr Spellar claimed the textiles and clothing industry would continue to experience problems because of intense global competition in the market and from producers in lower-cost emerging economies.
He said: "The carpet industry, for example, is having to adapt to trends towards wood and laminate flooring, particularly in the UK.
“DETI and Invest Northern Ireland have developed a number of initiatives to support companies in the textile sector to improve competitiveness through greater innovation, a sharper focus on branding and more effective marketing and, will continue to work to secure employment with these and other companies in the sector.”
(MB)
Portadown-based Shirtmakers Guild, which manufactures shirts for the upmarket retailer, Thomas Pink, said the jobs were under threat after its main customer withdrew its order.
It is understood Thomas Pink has decided to buy more of its shirts overseas.
The blow comes as trade union representatives held urgent talks to discuss the threat to more than 400 jobs at two Co Down textiles plants of carpet manufacturer, Carpets International.
Trade union representatives are to meet the company's receivers, PricewaterhouseCoopers, on Friday.
Meanwhile, NIO Minister John Spellar has expressed regret over the latest difficulties being experienced by companies in the textiles and clothing industry but warned of further difficulties ahead.
Mr Spellar claimed the textiles and clothing industry would continue to experience problems because of intense global competition in the market and from producers in lower-cost emerging economies.
He said: "The carpet industry, for example, is having to adapt to trends towards wood and laminate flooring, particularly in the UK.
“DETI and Invest Northern Ireland have developed a number of initiatives to support companies in the textile sector to improve competitiveness through greater innovation, a sharper focus on branding and more effective marketing and, will continue to work to secure employment with these and other companies in the sector.”
(MB)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
