The firm, which was recently acquired by United Capital, already operates in the area having won contracts with Perth & Kinross and Angus councils.

It now plans to open a Dundee depot and utilise its relationship with other United Capital group businesses, Dundee-based McGill and electrical company Alliance Electrical, to win more business from Edinburgh to Aberdeen.

Saltire general manager John Reynolds said: “It has always been our plan to push more into the East coast and being part of a larger group after our recent acquisition allows that to happen faster. We have already been successful in winning contracts with Perth & Kinross and Angus councils and look forward to building on this success.”

New owners United Capital and its experienced board of directors will support the existing management team at Saltire to achieve its ambitious growth plans.

John Reynolds added: “Saltire will seek to win public sector contracts through competitive tendering and great customer service, a reputation that we have worked hard to build up. We will also roll out a large domestic heating marketing campaign and look at growth by acquiring other East Coast operators.”

Saltire Facilities Management, head-quartered in Bellshill, is a national provider of central heating and electrical services and, with over 320 direct employees and an annual turnover of £30 million, is one of the largest of its type in the UK. The Dundee depot will be the fifth company office in addition to those already operating in Glasgow, Dumfries, Stranraer and Birmingham.