Decline

In 1897 the United Turkey Red Company was formed by the amalgamation of several dyers in response to the growing competition from Indian and Japanese mills. Although labels were still produced this marked the end of the classic era.

By 1900 synthetic dyes had been developed which produced just as bright a red as the Turkey red process. Although early synthetic dyes were cheaper to use they were not as fast to light. Goods produced with these dyes were sold at the cheaper end of the market. In 1914 a new type of synthetic dye known as Naphtol AS became available. This could produce colours just as brilliant and fast as the Turkey red process. The First World War prevented the introduction of this dye, but by the 1920s its use had made the Turkey red process obsolete. Production finally ceased in the 1930s.

In the 1900s the Turkey red industry was still thriving. It exported increasing quantities of yarn and fabric to many areas of the world. The decline of the industry was, however, already on the horizon.