A UK manufacturer is taking on the challenge of competing with imported products.
Global supply chain disruption, due to coronavirus, is delaying some deliveries to retailers, according to ETN’s sources.
For Yaris Equestrian, there are no such issues – because it makes horse wear, saddle cloths and stable drapes from start to finish in Cumbria.
And like many British manufacturers, it intends to seize the moment…
While Yaris may be a newish name to the trade, the surname of its commercial director most certainly isn’t.
James Todhunter runs Yaris Equestrian, and sister company Yaris Racing, with his father Ray Todhunter. Ray was the long-time owner of J W Wilkinson, maker of Kingshead rugs.
Yaris employs seven people – and is about to recruit more - at its factory based on a stud near Kendal. Three of the team worked for J W Wilkinson.
“We’re proud to be manufacturing in the UK,” James told ETN, “the challenge is to scale up and compete with the imports.”
Bespoke and personalised products are a speciality at Yaris. The company also appreciates that many retailers are working on short lead times.
“We ask for 21 days’ turnaround but usually fulfil orders within seven to 14 days,” says James, adding that they try to accommodate customers who need stock in a hurry.
As the trade looks ahead to the autumn/winter of a year like no other, James is feeling positive.
“After the challenges of 2020, we’re looking to step it up another level with our own range of rider clothing. We also have several new products – we can’t wait to get them out there.”
- ETN invites all suppliers – of imported and/or British made goods – to tell us about the status of your product availability and deliveries to the trade. Please email editor@equestriantradenews.com
Image by PublicDomainPictures from Pixabay
