Longevity and local manufacturing are key facets of Westaway Sails which is marking 55 years of both. The sailmaker, based in Devon, continues to design and produce all its sails in-house in the UK, and sees its heritage as a strength – not a relic.
Managing director John Pollard says the company’s ongoing focus on “quality and service” keeps sailors returning across generations.
Westaway Sails, founded in 1971, says it is known for durable, serviceable sails used by leisure cruisers and high-profile ocean racers alike. The company’s sails have supported some of Britain’s best-known sailors, including Dame Ellen MacArthur, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Sir Chay Blyth and Lisa Clayton – often lasting over 15 years (details of the company’s specialist sails are on its website).
MD and Royal Torbay Yacht Club sailor John Pollard has led the company since 2001. A multiple world and European champion in small keelboats, Pollard (who took the image used here) says that what defines Westaway is not just craftsmanship, but close relationships with sailors and the sailing community.
“We value quality and service,” he says. “Quick turnaround times and attentive support are what we aim for. From new sails to urgent repairs, we want to keep sailors on the water with minimal disruption.”
The company operates with a full-service model: designing new sails, offering repairs, washing, seasonal servicing, and even removal and reinstallation. Many of the team members have decades of service; one machinist has worked at the loft for more than 40 years, while the loft manager began as an apprentice and has stayed for over 22 years.
That continuity feeds into the company’s reputation for building robust, long-lasting sails tailored to specific needs – whether traditional canvas, performance race sails or simple cruising configurations.
Pollard says skills from sailing – resilience, teamwork and reading conditions – have translated well into running the business. “Sailing teaches you how to adapt quickly and balance risk. It’s helped shape how we’ve kept the company thriving through industry shifts.”
Westaway Sails has also been nominated for the King’s Award for Enterprise in Manufacturing, which recognises companies achieving excellence in areas such as innovation, sustainability and international trade.
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