Direct Soccer invests £1.9million in Dundee factory following grant from Scottish Enterprise

The firm secured a Regional Selective Assistance grant of £450,000 from Scottish Enterprise to support its expansion and investment in an automated Autostore robotic solution, the first to be installed in Scotland that will improve its warehouse operation.

Direct Soccer was established over 20 years ago with three stores and in 2002 moved online with the extension of its industrial unit in Dundee now providing room for growth to target more club, individual and public sector customers at home and globally.

The teamwear company provides football kits, equipment and trophies, as well as a personalised print and embroidery service to customers across the UK and Europe suppling major brands including Nike, Adidas, Mitre and Joma.

Scottish Enterprise managing director of business advice and services, Jane Martin, said: “We have worked with Direct Soccer for many years and it is fantastic to witness the company’s transition from its traditional retail roots through to a thriving e-commerce business and plans for international growth as it kits out the factory and adds to its team.

“As the impact of Covid 19 is seen across the economy it is vital that Scotland has an innovative, ambitious and outward-looking manufacturing sector that can capitalise on future opportunities for international trade, investment and supply chain development.

“Direct Soccer is a fantastic example of this, and we look forward to continuing to support them as they enter this new phase of ambitious expansion investing and creating new jobs in Dundee.”

Direct Soccer Director Joyce Gibson said: “Covid 19 has proved a challenge during 2020 with social distancing and safety measures having an impact on fulfilment speed as we focused on putting health, quality and safety first whilst processing orders.

“However, measures were put in place swiftly to minimise the impact on our business allowing us to push forward with our expansion plans during a very turbulent year.

“The investment programme of £1.9million over the next three years will increase the capacity to match the needs of our growing business and we look forward to the next stage in our business journey with the support of Scottish Enterprise.”

This news follows the recent announcement of a manufacturing recovery plan developed by the Scottish Government, its enterprise and skills agencies, industry partners, trades unions and academics to support the sector over the next 12 months.

The plan recognises the significant impact coronavirus (COVID-19) has had on the manufacturing sector in Scotland and focusses on four priority areas: collaboration and networks, supply chains and competitiveness, adaptation and transformation, and skills and workforce.

The proposals to secure a strong, sustainable future for the manufacturing sector are available for consultation until 15 January 2021. Manufacturers are encouraged to provide feedback on the plans, with more information available at  www.gov.scot/publications/making-scotlands-future-recovery-plan-manufacturing-draft-consultation