"Although this sound may be as old as mechanised weaving, this should not lead to the misconceived image of the 1900s, this is a company which has and is innovating in all aspects."On the evening of 6th November the IETNI Local Network made a visit to the Castleisland Factory of Ulster Carpets in Portadown.


It is not difficult to see how this company wins some of the world’s most discerning customers, as arriving in the heritage centre the visitors were most warmly and personally welcomed. Snacking on hot beverages and sandwiches provided, the group were surrounded by the tools of yesteryear while the recognisable muted sound of looms harmonised from next door. Although this sound may be as old as mechanised weaving, this should not lead to the misconceived image of the 1900s, this is a company which has and is innovating in all aspects. The initial evidence of this was in the audio tour guide system employed to ensure everyone could easily hear the guides amongst the noise of the factory operations.


Two groups in turn visited the Dyehouse and PSYLO Weaving facilities, where in each the level of investment in technology and automation was greatly appreciated by the visitors. The number of elements brought together to produce the Company’s product was not lost on anybody, with one person commenting that “I’ll not complain at the price when my wife is next buying a carpet” and another “Now I know why the words awe and inspiring were put together”


As with all IET tours and incidentally the reason for organising them is that witnessing is the best revelation into the place of the tour, words will not reflect the experience.


A big thanks to the hosts who came in outside their working hours and from holiday to lead a most fascinating insight into this gem of Ulster industry.