Over the past 50+ years, our team has evolved, growing from just Camille and Wally Mclaggan Smith to the more than 20 talented individuals we employ today. While much has changed, one thing has remained constant: our passion for screen-printed ceramics.
Whether creating bespoke designs for our customers or producing a wide variety of licensed ranges, we take great pride in every step of the process—screen-printing, hand-decorating, and kiln-firing each mug with care.
Wally and Camille retired in 2021, but the team continues to build on what was started in 1974. With that in mind, we thought it was about time we introduced you to the people behind the mugs ... our very own 'mug shots' if you will!
We sat down with three members of the team for a blether (that's Scottish for "a wee chat"). This week, say hello to Charlotte, Stacey and Wullie.
What's your name, what do you do, and how long have you been part of the team?
Charlotte: My name is Charlotte, I work in design. I’ve been here for nearly two years.
Stacey: I'm Stacey, and I’ve been a decorator at mclaggan+co for three years.
Wullie: Wullie, Chief Mugger, also known as Head Kiln Loader. I’ve been with the company for fifteen years.
What are the three best things about your job?
Charlotte: The best things about my job are the creativity involved, the wonderful people I work with, and the fact that every day feels exciting and different.
Stacey: I really appreciate the bonus scheme, the two weeks off for Christmas and New Year, and the flexibility, which is especially helpful for managing childcare.
Wullie: The peace and quiet while working, it is only five minutes from home, and the kiln keeps everything lovely and warm in winter (not so good in summer!)
What keeps you going: tea or coffee?
Charlotte: I enjoy both, but I would usually choose tea or a cappuccino with oat milk.
Stacey: A bit of both.
Wullie: Coffee, especially when mixed with Morgan’s Spiced!
And if you had to choose a biscuit to go with your cuppa?
Charlotte: It has to be a custard cream! A classic and always delicious.
Stacey: A chocolate digestive really hits the spot.
Wullie: I don’t usually eat biscuits as I’m on a diet … but if I had to pick one, it would be a chocolate digestive cause they’re big!
Lastly, whether drinking or dunking, what’s your mug of choice?
Charlotte: I have two! I use my Quentin Blake Pigs mug for coffee, and I enjoy my tea in my Crafter mug.
Stacey: I like the Smiles range, especially the Sunshine mug as we can always do with a bit of extra sun here in Scotland!
Wullie: I’m a big footie fan so I love my Art of Football mug by Picturemaps.
That's it for this week. We'll be sharing more of the faces behind the mugs over the next few weeks, so check back on the blog or subscribe to our newsletter to meet more of the team.
