Orkney-based knitwear designer Hilary Grant has been named as the Best Scottish Independent Online Retailer at a leading fashion industry awards ceremony.
The Orkney Crafts Association member claimed the title at The Herald Fashion.co.uk Awards in Glasgow. The judges were impressed by the company’s use of online influencers rather than more traditional means of advertising.
They also praised Hilary Grant’s use of location to help tell the story of the brand in a fresh and engaging way.
The business was also shortlisted in the People’s Choice and Online Accessory Retailer of the Year categories at the event, which welcomed 200 fashion retailers, bloggers, stylists and other entrepreneurs from around Scotland.
Hilary Grant said ‘We’re really delighted to have won. We put a lot of time and creative effort into all of our online marketing and it's brilliant to have received some recognition - especially as we were up against other really high calibre Scottish companies. It shows that even when you live somewhere like Orkney with transportation and connectivity challenges, it's still possible to build a competitive and successful online business with an international reach.’
Development Manager for Orkney Crafts Association, Edgar Balfour, said ‘Hilary Grant’s products are becoming increasingly sought-after and the business has become a very prominent member of our talented crafts industry. This award highlights that Orkney is not only a place for inspiration, but also somewhere where a business can grow and find new markets right across the globe.’
Hilary Grant design knitwear and home accessories that focus on craftsmanship, using high grade lambswool, with products available in Orkney and around the world.
Hilary has also recently launched a new book, Knitting from the North, which features a selection of archive designs translated into 30 contemporary hand knit projects. The book is published in the UK by Kyle Books and in the US by Roost Books/Random House.
Knitwear and books are available from the official website. You can also follow Hilary Grant on Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.