Borders business hailed as one of Scotland's innovators
A Borders family business has been commended for its creativity and approach to product development following a high profile visit from the country’s lead economic development agency.
Jack Perry, chief executive of Scottish Enterprise, visited Scotmas in Kelso today to hear about its work with Scottish Enterprise to develop new products and expand its business.
Traditionally focused on manufacturing water treatment and environmental care products for public buildings, hospitals and the light industry, the company has been looking for opportunities to target new markets.
Through support from Scottish Enterprise’s account manager, they were introduced to one of SE’s innovation advisors. The company also benefited from financial support through Scottish Enterprise’s research and development programme and the South of Scotland Loan fund, which helped the company identify new opportunities to target the off shore oil sector and more consumer markets.
This includes the development of a longer lasting sunscreen and insect repellent, suitable for adventure travel and military personnel while serving overseas, as well as a chlorine dioxide “wipe” for the removal of tobacco odours, mould and fungus.
Jack Perry said: “I have been extremely impressed with the management team here at Scotmas and their commitment to developing new ideas and looking at ways to improve their business.
“In the current climate, companies which can demonstrate flexibility and continue to create, evaluate and exploit new ideas are the most likely to come out of the current recession, more efficient, more profitable and more successful.
“Scotmas is exactly the kind of company we want to work with and we want more Scottish businesses to look at ways to improve their business, whether that’s developing new products, improving business processes; or transforming business models to improve competitiveness. “
Scotmas was founded in 1999 by managing director Derek Cameron and his sons, Alistair and Ewan are both Directors of the company. Since its launch, the company has grown to employ more than 20 people and generate sales of more than £1 million a year.
Derek said: “We were delighted to welcome Jack and introduce him to the team here. This is a really exciting stage of our development. Scottish Enterprise has provided us with some invaluable support over the years but particularly over the past year in helping us to look at how we can expand and target new areas for the business and we look forward to continuing to work with them going forward.”
Scottish Enterprise provides a range of innovation support to Scottish companies. To access the latest information on how innovation can help to boost your business, visit www.scottish-enterprise.com/innovation.