Chilean's Scottish Kilts Go Global From Germany

**starbkjrus** · 21st January 08, 08:55 AM

More than one person has alluded to "highly taxed" imported wool. er......Last time I checked Germany and Scotland were both EU members. There shouldn't be any import duties.

**Arlen** · 22nd January 08, 02:31 PM

Originally Posted by Fedgunner

Kathy Lare might take exception to that...

I'm glad I'm not the only one who noticed that.

I can't say I'm particularly impressed with either his work or his attitude.

**Rex_Tremende** · 22nd January 08, 03:52 PM

Kathy Lare is a member of The Keith Kiltmakers Guild. I don't think that's the same credential.

R.

**MacMillan of Rathdown** · 22nd January 08, 05:13 PM

Originally Posted by SteveB

I am sure that his fees are somewhat high, as the import of Scottish Tartan into Germany is rather highly taxed. The price quote is probably for a high end (read: rare tartan) kilt.

As I understand it, a German company buying wool in the UK pays exactly the same price, including VAT (Value Added Tax, which is later claimed back) as a UK based company. There is no "import duty" between members states of the European Union. The costs of the goods does increase due to shipping, plus VAT on the shipping. The cost of doing business in Germany is higher than in the UK due to the German business tax structure, shorter work week, and higher minimum wages.

Added to this is the fact that "couture" always costs more-- and it's easy to see why this fella charges more than his Scottish or North American counterparts.