Business leaders visit Axminster Carpets

Chamber of Commerce members from Honiton, Seaton and Axminster tour the world famous factory

Chamber of Commerce leaders from across East Devon were given a tour of Axminster’s world famous carpet factory last week.

They were welcomed by managing director David Knight, who expressed his commitment to the town.

He gave the visitors an insight into the world of carpet manufacturing, Axminster’s renowned place in the carpet world and his vision for driving the firm forward for the future.

As a holder of a Royal Warrant from the Queen, he was pleased to inform the group of some of the differing iconic settings their enduring carpets enhance, along with many royal residences - and railway train floors.

Amongst the chambers represented at the visit was a group from Axminster, led by chairman Shane Morgan, Honiton’s president Colin Wright and chairman Tony McCollum and Seaton chamber representatives Charlie and Jenny Male.

Mr Morgan said: “We enjoyed a fascinating tour and the visit fulfilled the wishes of many present to see an Axminster Carpet loom at work.”

The firm’s marketing manager, Hilary Clements, explained the benefits of wool carpets, including its high temperature resistance, anti-allergen properties and insulation qualities, before taking them on a tour of the factory floor to see several looms in action.

Experts Steve Marks and Paul Bujnievcz demonstrated some of the skills involved in being a weaver along with the assistance of modern technology.

Finally, chamber members were shown an historical display of carpets before all expressed their delight and thanks at being able to visit.