THE ABERDEEN COMB TRADE
PROPOSED AMALGAMATION OF COMPANIES.

It is reported that negotiations are in progress for the amalgamation of the two comb manufacturing companies in Aberdeen – The Aberdeen Combworks Company, Limited, whose works are in Hutcheon Street, and Scottish Comb Company, Limited, which was formed about three years ago, and has been carrying on operations for the past two years in the factory it erected near Kittybrewster. Some details have yet to be adjusted, but it is understood that there is practically no doubt that the “ combine” will be effected. Both companies have, it is believed, being fairly well employed, but probably competition may have been so keen as to suggest the mutual advantage of amalgamation.

The Aberdeen Combworks Company, Limited, Was formed a number of years ago to acquire the extensive combworks of S. R. Stewart and Co., then, as now, the largest manufactory of the kind in the United Kingdom. The company whose capital amounts to nearly £300,000, acquired also the Rosemount Combworks, Aberdeen, and the combworks at York.

The directors are – Sir David Stewart, Mr James Bannochie, Professor Niven, Mr Henry Steward, York; Mr D. B. D. Stewart, Aberdeen; and Mr William Dyce Stewart, Aberdeen.

The Scottish Comb Company, Limited, Has a capital of Philly 12,000 pounds, and its directors include Mr John George Gordon, timber merchant; Mr John Thompson, University Press, Aberdeen; Mr P. M. Leslie, Aberdeen; and two Birmingham gentlemen. It is to be hoped that, with the amalgamation of the companies, there will still be plenty of work to keep the two factories going, for the comb trade has for long been one of the staple Industries which have contributed to the commercial prosperity of Aberdeen.

Note : Acquisitions Capital of £300,000 in 1903 equated to £30,911,760 in 2013.
Source : Aberdeen Daily Journal, March 1903.