The looms at Melin Tregwynt are working once again as weaving resumes at its factory in Pembrokeshire.
The Castlemorris-based, family-run business has survived two world wars, numerous recessions and the Covid-19 pandemic since it was first set-up by the Griffith family in 1912.
A £95,000 investment from the Covid-19 Wales Business Loan Scheme, which was awarded by the Development Bank of Wales as part of the Welsh Government Economic Resilience Fund, means that Melin Tregwynt can now reopen to the public.
This is currently on the basis of a one week on one week off staff rota to keep staff, customers and family safe.
As a traditional mill, Melin Tregwynt produces award-winning Welsh blankets, throws, cushions and accessories that are exported throughout the World. The business employs 30 staff.
Owners Amanda and Eifion Griffith said: “Thanks to the fantastic support of our customers, staff and friends, we’ve been able to survive lockdown. We’re now starting to weave again and our mill shop and cafe have re-opened.
“Our online business has remained strong throughout and products continue to be sent all over the world. We appreciated the speed of response and open communication with Development Bank of Wales throughout this period.”
Alun Thomas is a fund manager with the Development Bank of Wales. He said: “Melin Tregwynt shows how traditional businesses with management who respond to their customers and work hard to keep up to date while adhering to their principles can not only survive but also thrive. When you buy Melin Tregwynt products, you buy hundreds of years of history.
“There has been a mill on the site since the 17th century, when local farmers would bring their fleeces to be spun into yarn and woven into sturdy Welsh wool blankets. The skills and knowledge of all the staff, both past and present, keep the tradition of Welsh weaving alive at Melin Tregwynt. As one of over a thousand businesses that we helped during this pandemic, it is a real pleasure to assist Amanda and Eifion.”