Eclipse explains why it’s flying the flag for British industry Buying British is something we traditionally care about in a crisis but largely ignore day to day. We may care that Marks & Spencer suddenly sends its business overseas but then praise the Consumer Association for telling us how to import cheaper cars. This is probably because buying British is associated with pure patriotism rather than business rationale and ensuring a balanced economy.

The recent return of The Apprentice brought to mind Lord Sugar’s unequivocal logic: “We must buy products that are made here… Supporting a British firm creates work for someone. If we have any chance of getting out of this financial crisis it will only happen if people are employed and earning money.”

Eclipse recognises that manufacturing is not going to be the wonder cure of the economy, but it is definitely a strong support. During the 1970s, over 30 per cent of the UK economy was based on manufacturing, yet today we are down to only 12 per cent. This small minority, of which Eclipse is a part, has to be viewed as class outfits if they are to remain in the game. Any firm that has made it through the last few decades shows resilience well worth plugging into. Eclipse is fiercely proud to be a designer, manufacturer and distributor of British window blinds.

As the market leader in the design of new window blind systems, components and fabrics, Eclipse invests significantly in its in-house design team. Its commitment to the principles of products made in the UK means there is no compromise when it comes to the evolution of products and standards. Not only are styles and colours developed to reflect the trends on the high street, but they also create unique prints, patterns, weaves and textures. By working closely with key British partners, who are at the forefront of fabric technology, the focus remains on inventing sustainable products.

A textile weaving plant based in Yorkshire is responsible for the base elements being converted into fibre, dying of the yarns, warping them to beam and finally weaving them into cloth. This British source ensures a security of supply that is truly flexible to customers’ needs. Eclipse’s fabric processing plant, just outside Glasgow, is where the ‘raw’ soft fabrics are coated with recipe resins, making them suitable for use as window blinds. Colour-coating, blackout, fire retardancy, Biocote and other performance finishes are all part of a highly specialised process.

Every fabric manufactured has to satisfy exacting quality standards before it is accepted as suitable for use. Holding the ISO9001 standard is not just about ticking boxes – it guarantees Eclipse has an effective quality management system in place to make sure products are fit for the consumer. A sophisticated software system and emphasis on lean processes ensures that every single stock item is stored and distributed as efficiently as possible. Robust recycled packaging and consignment consolidation means that carrier partners are able to deliver anywhere on the UK mainland within 24 hours with the least environmental impact.

With the majority of fabrics being woven, coated and finished in the UK, choosing Eclipse means you choose the best quality. Buying British supports our economy, encourages home-grown talent, helps the environmental effort and celebrates our own unique skills.

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