Johnstons of Elgin honoured with the King’s Award for enterprise in international trade
Johnstons of Elgin, the renowned Scottish cashmere and fine woollens producer, has been awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise, recognising its exceptional performance in international trade.
This accolade underscores the company’s position as one of Britain’s most distinguished businesses in the global market.
Founded in 1797, Johnstons of Elgin has long been celebrated for its dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. With a workforce of over 1,000 individuals, the family-owned business began its international journey as early as 1813, making it a pioneer in global trade among UK enterprises.
Chris Gaffney, Chief Executive of Johnstons of Elgin, expressed his pride in the achievement: “I am delighted to see the hard work of our teams recognised with this prestigious award. Our company has always been outward-looking, striving to find new markets since our founder, Alexander Johnston, first transported our woollen fabric to Nova Scotia, Canada. We are proud that our brand is recognised globally as a symbol of the highest quality.”
The award, which celebrates outstanding achievements by UK businesses in categories such as innovation, international trade, sustainable development, and promoting opportunity through social mobility, was given to Johnstons of Elgin for its stellar contribution to international trade. This marks the second time the company has been honoured, following a previous award for Sustainable Development in 2021 bestowed by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Formerly known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, the awards were renamed The King’s Awards for Enterprise last year, in alignment with His Majesty The King’s commitment to continuing the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II. Now in its 58th year, the programme is considered the most prestigious business accolade in the UK, granting recipients the privilege of displaying the revered King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.
The announcement places Johnstons of Elgin in an elite group of 252 organisations nationally recognised this year, cementing its status as a leader not only in craftsmanship but also in its strategic approach to international markets.
