It was originally founded in 1949 as a joint venture between the then Don Brothers, Buist & Company of Forfar and Ballantynes of Peebles, although Ballantynes withdrew from the partnership in 1952.

Following a management buyout in 1983 by Sales Director David Cowley, ownership was transferred to the Cowley family, whose historic connections and expertise within the Scottish textile industry have ensured that the company has continued to prosper.

The family connection has continued, with directors David and Joan Cowley being joined in the business by daughter Heather, who took up the post of Business Development Executive in May 1999. This ensures that the strong personal link between Strathmore, its customers and suppliers - one of our main advantages, even in today's highly competitive market environment - is maintained not only for now, but also for the foreseeable future.

Two generations of the Mackie family also play an important role in the business. Arthur Mackie Senior, although officially retired, continues as a Consultant, enabling us to draw on his years of experience in the demanding field of tartan design, while daughter Maureen is Manageress and son Arthur Junior works in our Forfar warehouse.