Premium lifestyle and heritage brand Barbour has announced plans to expand its factory in South Shields due to unprecedented global demand. The number of production lines at the factory where the company makes its iconic Bedale wax jackets, will be increased, leading to new employment opportunities with the recruitment of approximately forty machinists.
To support this recruitment drive, Barbour has launched an onsite training facility, the Barbour Academy. Every new machinist will undertake a comprehensive training programme delivered by experienced in-house trainers. Initial training in the Academy lasts approximately three months, enabling recruits to begin working on the factory floor with supervision. It can take up to a year for machinists to become fully proficient.
During their training, the machinists will begin by producing a range of simple products as they learn and develop their skills. This will include tote bags, which can then be used by the company’s marketing team to support promotional campaigns and brand activations. This approach provides valuable practical experience while contributing to wider business initiatives and ensuring that there is no waste of materials.
Recruitment for machinists is underway with the first five machinists already beginning their training at the Academy. Potential recruits are being introduced to the business through employment agencies, a partnership with the charities Smart Works North East and Suitability who support women and men back into employment and through referrals from existing employees, family members and friends.
Dame Margaret Barbour, Chairman said
“We are excited to be recruiting for trainee machinists to join our team in South Shields. No experience is necessary as full training will be provided. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn a highly skilled craft and to play an important role in creating our iconic wax jackets. It also demonstrates our commitment to the region which has been home to Barbour for over 130 years.”
The recruitment programme forms part of the wider expansion of the Barbour factory and reflects the company’s long-term commitment to investing in people and supporting local employment.
All machinist training is expected to be completed by mid-February 2027, ahead of the planned relocation of the Barbour Customer Services team which includes re-waxing, repairs and Barbour Re-Loved (circularity programme) to a new location within Simonside.
For further information or to apply for a machinist role, please visit www.barbourcareers.co.uk/vacancies
