Ulster Hosiery Limited, a Subsidiary of Berkshire International (U.K.) Ltd was formed in October 1967 to enter the low price competitive field manufacturing Ladies nylon stockings and tights to sell in bulk as Contract Knitters, to the Wholesale, Chain Groups, and orher Outlets.


The Management consisted of J.Howard Ward-Managing Director; James S Brownlie - Sales Manager; Eric F.B. Lowry - Secretary/Accountant and Jim McIlwaine - Production Manager.

Situated on the periphery of a large and expanding housing estate on the outskirts of Belfast, labour was readily available, recruited and trained. By the installation of the most modern knitting, ancillary and packing machinery etc., production commenced in November 1967.

Using the Brand name "Poodle" and a secondary name "Swift," also packing in customers own House Brand 'get-up', production and sales of tights, since 1967, had increased to a point where, in 1969, a decision had to be taken regarding expansion.
   
The Mill increased in size from 33,000 to approximately 63,000 square feet thereby doubling production capacity and also increasing office accommodation.

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