Hope rise for historic firm

Jun 6 2009 by Chris Knox, The Journal

AN HISTORIC Cumbrian textile firm which administrators said was certain to close has been thrown a lifeline after it was announced that a Lancashire firm was closing in on a deal.

Stead McAlpine, based in Carlisle, went into administration in April after falling victim to cheap imports and the ongoing recession – leading to the axing of 62 jobs.

It looked destined for closure as recent at late May after its remaining workers voted against a sale to R Soper Ltd because of a disagreement with the employment terms, which included pay cuts of up to 30%.

However, the deal looks to be back on after the Lancashire firm submitted new terms, which administrators Begbies Traynor said were more favourable to Stead McAlpine’s remaining 61 workers.

The firm – established in 1835 and based at Cummersdale Print Works – is known for printing, dyeing and finishing fabrics, mainly for home furnishings.