IT has become one of Scotland’s most recognisable knitwear brands in recent years.

And now, for the first time ever, they are opening up their Galashiels factory in time for Christmas.

ERIBÉ has been dressing the fashion conscious across the world since the late 1990s.

During the past two decades the brand has steadily grown and now works with close to 250 artisan knitters throughout the country.

The stunning, and distinctive, Fairisle patterns are now stocked in over 200 leading stores across 16 different countries.

And a thriving mail-order business is also popular with customers from across the globe.

But the full range of sweaters, cardigans, scarves, hats and gloves has never been available in Galashiels - until now.

Rosemary Eribé, founder and managing director of ERIBÉ, told us: “This is the first time we have opened our doors to the public for an extended period of time.

“It is in direct response to numerous customers, from as far away as Japan, contacting us asking if they could visit ERIBÉ and purchase directly from us.

“Our customers feel very connected to our brand and wish to meet us in person.” The factory shop, which will offer the full ERIBÉ range at discount prices, is expected to attract visitors from across the region and further afield to Galashiels.

As well as normal factory hours of 10am to 4pm, Monday-to-Friday, there will be a series of late-night shopping events at the Huddersfield Street depot.

Rosemary added: “This will be the widest selection of ERIBÉ pieces available to the public as it will include the current AW14 collection, archive, seconds and end of line bargains.

“I am confident you will be spoiled for choice with our huge variety of patterns and colours. This is a great opportunity to pick up a unique gift for friends and family.“ 2014 has already been a busy year for ERIBÉ as they hosted a three-day hand-knitting workshop and two-week-long pop-up shop at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

The Galashiels firm were also nominated for this year’s Scottish Fashion Awards in the category of 'Exporter of the Year’.

The factory shop at Huddersfield Street began trading yesterday (Tuesday) and will remain open until Thursday, December 18.