A tartan specialist is gaining new momentum in EU markets, following the demise of its export capabilities post-Brexit.
Established in 1947, Stevens & Graham, which serves both the contract and domestic markets, is the world’s largest supplier of tartan carpets and rugs, providing both design and production of traditional wool-woven styles.
The firm initially struggled to access the EU market in the wake of Brexit, but its European exports now account for almost half of its production, and it has recently gained new contract work in Paris after finding a solution.
The Scottish family-run business has seen its carpets used on high profile commercial projects, including hospitality, retail, leisure, TV and film. Most notably, the carpets were used in the Trainspotting 2 film, which has recently enjoyed a new lease of life following the announcement of a new novel by Irvine Welsh.
Stevens & Graham is globally renowned for its tartan creations, with private customers ranging from tech billionaires to royal palaces. Stevens & Graham’s post-Brexit challenge meant all exports were halted until it could identify a logistics solution that enables the smooth flow of goods into the continent.
With the prospect of losing out on major contracts the firm looked at a variety of options and in 2023 discovered Europa Road, part of one of Britain’s largest independent logistics providers, Europa Worldwide Group.
A representative from Stevens & Graham commented: “We struggled with the restrictions brought into action through Brexit, which meant we found it challenging to access EU markets. Due to the high-profile nature of our projects, there is no room for delays. Leveraging Europa Road’s services means we’re able to meet challenging timings and take-on new opportunities.
“The EU now accounts for 40 per cent of our overall shipments, which means our exporting capabilities have been transformed through Europa’s services.
“Most recently, we have supplied a leading designer fashion brand in Paris, furnishing three bespoke showrooms. Europa’s expertise meant we were able to support this important project.”
Elisa Elder, Glasgow Branch Manager, commented: “Stevens & Graham use our Deliver Duty Paid (DDP) Europa Flow Service, which offers a pre-Brexit service with reduced paperwork, lower costs and faster transit times for businesses. Our expertise in high-value, time-sensitive consignments meant that our team was able to support its latest project by meeting tight deadlines through our own vehicles and network of local hauliers.
“We ship for Stevens & Graham every six weeks on Groupage terms, predominantly to high-end projects in France. We are ensuring we can fulfil next-day delivery requirements for them, guaranteeing the bespoke traditional tartan carpets get to their end destination in perfect condition.”
Adrian Redmile, Branch and Sales Director at Europa Worldwide Group, commented: “We recognise the importance of driving operations forward and contributing to the economy. Each of our expert local teams play a pivotal role in our wider operation, ensuring each customer receives an exceptional service. I’m delighted to see our Glasgow team is supporting Scottish businesses by transporting high-end bespoke tartan carpets with a timely service and look forward to their growth and success in the future.”
