Russwood have been able to tap into HIE’s experience and knowledge of developing new products and bringing them to market effectively.
John, who attended the ‘Accelerated New Product or Process Development’ programme added: “I’m not the most process driven person, I’m more about looking at ideas and how to develop them. But I recognise that can cause issues.
“The course helped me understand the importance of process and steered me in the right direction. First with identifying a new product that will interest the market, and then with planning the best way to introduce it to the market.
“HIE have been very supportive in this area, encouraging us to be entrepreneurial and innovate. They have the ability to see the bigger picture and the vision to drive companies forward.”
The programme also provided a platform for John to meet other members of the local business community and share experiences.
He added: “A good cross section of businesses from across the Highlands participated. It’s always beneficial to interact with other businesses, discovering what their issues are and how they solve problems.
“HIE have always been very supportive when I have approached them with ideas. It is not just about financial support, it also about knowing that HIE has confidence in what you are trying to achieve.”
John believes the ‘Accelerated New Product or Process Development’ programme has hugely benefited Russwood. He said: “It can be difficult justifying time away to participate in something you might not think is core to the business. But gaining knowledge on how to take new products to the market clearly is core to what we do.
“To anyone considering joining the programme I would say there is always room to grow. We are now less liable to make a mistake going forward when assessing and introducing new products.”
