Brian Whittle MSP swapped the world of politics for the wizarding world on a recent visit to Lochaven International in Stewarton. Unknown to many in Ayrshire, the uniforms worn by Harry Potter and his fellow Hogwarts students in the global film franchise were made by Lochaven in Stewarton.
Today, the firm is responsible for manufacturing a wide range of replica garments which are sold around the world as official Harry Potter merchandise and supply Universal Studios globally with staff uniforms and retail at the Harry Potter theme parks. Lochaven continues to play a role in the world conjured up by author J.K Rowling by providing costumes for the film “Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them” and its upcoming sequel.
In addition to its Harry Potter work Lochaven also manufactured premium knitwear for famous fashion brands like Prada. The company has significantly increased its workforce in recent years with most coming from the local area; supporting younger people to develop new skills and continue the reputation for craftsmanship they’ve built up since they were founded in the 1940’s.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“Lochaven are a great unsung success story in Ayrshire. Most people have seen at least one Harry Potter film but how many of them knew Harry, Ron & Hermione were wearing outfits made in Stewarton?
It was a pleasure to visit their factory and see the skill and dedication the staff put into everything they do. I look forward to seeing how this great Ayrshire company continues to grow and develop in the future.”
Lochaven Directors Colin Leishman & Keith Murray said:
“We would like to thank Brian for coming to visit us. It was great for an MSP to take the time and being able to show the talents of our staff, particularly the young people that have been trained in-house thanks in part to the support we receive from East Ayrshire Council. If more could be done at government level to support local councils with these schemes, then more businesses could grow.”