EAGER followers of fashion will have to wait several months yet to see

the full impact of the recent merger between two of Scotland's

long-established clothing companies.

The Edinburgh-based kiltmakers Kinloch Anderson joined forces with

Bryant of Scotland, which employs around 130 people at its mill in

Tillicoultry, near Alloa.

Now known as Kinloch Anderson Holdings, it is anticipated that the new

venture will lead to greater business opportunities, particularly in the

overseas market where the label ''made in Scotland'' still wears well.

Mr Gary Grieg, sales director, believes that the new partnership will

prosper, although their first collection will not be seen until later in

the year. It will be followed by a major autumn collection to be

launched at the beginning of January.

He admitted that it was an exciting time for the new venture despite

continued concerns over the state of the British marketplace.