On Thursday (7th October), Jarrow MP Kate Osborne visited Barbour, one of the largest employers in the Jarrow Constituency. Founded in 1894, Barbour is now a fifth-generation family-owned business and a global brand that has stayed true to its roots and is now based in the Bede Industrial Estate.
The company produces high-quality clothing with a focus on sustainability as they offer repairs for their products to ensure a lifetime of wear is possible. Kate was invited to the warehouse and was given a tour around the facilities by directors and met with employees who demonstrated the extreme skill it takes to produce these world-renowned garments.
The Barbour Foundation was set up in 1988 and supports charities in the North East of England having donated over £24million to local communities. The Women’s fund is another organisation Barbour set up which supports the social well being of women in the local community too.
Kate Osborne MP said: “I am pleased to have been able to visit the Barbour site for the first time after previously being unable to visit due to the pandemic.”
“Having a world-famous brand based in the Jarrow constituency is absolutely brilliant. Barbour employ hundreds of people from our local communities, and it was great to be able to see the staff and the high standards they work to. The atmosphere on the workshop floor was excellent.”
“Barbour is a historic brand that represents the best of the local area. The Barbour Foundation created by Dame Margaret Barbour to support charities and good causes in the North East of England continues to support the local community.”
“It is important that big businesses share their wealth and profits to enrich the communities that support and surround them, and Barbour is committed to doing so by providing highly skilled job opportunities to local people whilst also raising funds and donating to local charities and good causes.”
