Ayrshire windows firm to expand with new enterprise funding
Windows and doors specialist Scotia Double Glazing Ltd has expanded into new, purpose-built premises after agreeing a six-figure deal with UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE).
The Ayrshire-based business received additional investment from UKSE - a Tata Steel subsidiary set up to help growing companies operating in former steel producing areas realise their full potential - to develop the new headquarters facility that will support increasing customer demand.
The move has enabled Scotia to merge its five smaller factories into one main hub. The firm’s new factory, in Kilmarnock, has been custom-built to support the exact business needs for the long-term future. Along with this, the company is looking to expand its current workforce of 180 highly-skilled staff by 10% over the next two years.
These measures are being supported by significant investment in new, leading edge cutting lines and vinyl welding machinery, which will allow the business to work at maximum efficiency and significantly reduce wastage.
Since its formation in 1983, Scotia has been supplying double glazing to domestic customers and major housebuilders in Scotland.
The firm previously received funding from UKSE in 2014, which assisted in a management buyout, spearheaded by Scotia’s managing director Robert McKnight.
Scott Webb, regional executive at UKSE, said: “Scotia Double Glazing is a strong performer in the industry and seeing how the company has grown since 2014 is remarkable. We are more than happy to continue our support.
“It’s an exciting time for the company as its continued success leads to further expansion plans. We’re excited to see what’s next to come for Scotia, and we look forward to watching them grow.”
Robert McKnight, managing director at Scotia Double Glazing Ltd, said: “We are very grateful for the help that UKSE have given us. If it wasn’t for the investment they have provided us with, we would have struggled to keep up with customer demand.
“We are really excited to get moving into our purpose-built premises, where we can continue our hard work.”