Alex Begg of Ayr

On the west coast of Scotland, in the seaside town of Ayr, stands one of the country’s quiet but enduring icons of craftsmanship: Alex Begg. For over 150 years, this storied textile house has transformed the finest fibres into pieces that embody the spirit of Scottish artistry, a balance of precision, creativity, and care.

A Legacy of Craft

Founded in 1866 by Alex Begg in Paisley, then a thriving centre of weaving and textile production, the company soon established itself as a maker of exceptional scarves and shawls. In 1902, it moved to Ayr, drawn by the purity of the local water, ideal for dyeing and finishing natural fibres. That decision became pivotal: it anchored the brand in a coastal setting that continues to shape its identity and production today.

Over the decades, Alex Begg evolved from a small workshop to a globally recognised name in luxury manufacturing. Their reputation rests not only on their own products but also on their partnerships with prestigious fashion houses around the world. Behind many of the world’s finest scarves and cashmere accessories lies the quiet artistry of Ayr’s weavers.

The Art of Weaving

Walking through the Ayr mill, the hum of looms and the soft rhythm of hand-finishing reveal a process steeped in both tradition and innovation. Here, artisans work with cashmere, silk, lambswool, and merino, creating textiles that are as refined as they are enduring.

Alex Begg’s philosophy is rooted in craftsmanship, every stage, from warping to weaving and finishing, takes place under one roof. While the mill is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, much of the expertise lies in the hands and eyes of the craftspeople who maintain the quality that has defined the brand for generations.

Their in-house label, Begg x Co, launched in 2014, reflects this blend of heritage and modern design. It offers a contemporary take on Scottish luxury, with collections inspired by art, nature, and architecture and always underpinned by the integrity of traditional weaving.

Responsible Luxury

Alex Begg’s commitment to sustainability is woven into its operations as carefully as its textiles. The company places great emphasis on ethical sourcing, ensuring that their cashmere is traceable to responsible suppliers in Mongolia and China.

The Ayr mill is certified to ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 9001 (quality management), and ISO 50001 (energy management) which is a clear evidence of their efforts to reduce impact while maintaining world-class standards. Waste fibres are reused and repurposed wherever possible, reflecting a “nothing wasted” approach that honours both resource and craft.

Their Sustainability Report outlines goals for reducing carbon emissions and improving transparency throughout their supply chain, demonstrating how even the most traditional industries can adapt to the needs of a changing world.

The Human Story

Behind the brand’s success are the people of Ayr - generations of weavers, dyers, and finishers whose skills are passed down through families. The company’s commitment to local employment has helped sustain a proud Scottish industry that might otherwise have faded in the face of globalisation.

However, like many manufacturers, Alex Begg has faced challenges. In 2024, the company announced redundancies at its Ayr site due to rising costs and a slowdown in luxury demand. Yet, despite these pressures, the spirit of the business endures. Its leadership continues to invest in innovation, design, and sustainable growth, ensuring that the company remains a cornerstone of Scotland’s textile future.

Looking Ahead

Today, Alex Begg stands as both a custodian of heritage and a symbol of quiet reinvention. Its scarves and throws are sold around the world, cherished for their softness, beauty, and integrity. Yet their story remains deeply tied to Ayr, to the coast, the community, and the craft that has defined Scottish luxury for more than a century.

In a world driven by speed and mass production, Alex Begg of Ayr reminds us of something essential: that true luxury is not about excess, but about care - care for materials, for people, and for the traditions that make something worth keeping.

If You Go

If you ever find yourself in Ayr, take time to visit the Alex Begg Outlet Store on Viewfield Road, where you can see and feel their beautiful creations in person and perhaps take home a piece of Scotland’s craftsmanship. The store offers scarves, throws, and accessories from both Alex Begg and Begg x Co, often at special prices.

For those curious about how it all comes together, mill tours are occasionally offered, offering a glimpse behind the scenes at one of Scotland’s most respected textile houses.

Whether you’re a lover of fine fabrics or simply appreciate the artistry of something made with care, a visit to Alex Begg is a gentle reminder that true beauty often lies in the details and that some traditions are worth holding onto.

Editor’s Note

Alex Begg Outlet & Mill
17 Viewfield Road, Ayr, KA8 8HJ
alex-begg.co.uk

“Our story is one of quiet craftsmanship - the coming together of skill, material and place. Every scarf we make carries a little piece of Scotland with it.” - Alex Begg & Co