Family run Ashley Ann Limited (AAL), which designs and manufactures kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms, has secured a funding package of up to £190,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
The investment forms part of the company’s £1.5m investment programme for the next three years.
The HIE money will enable the company to expand by purchasing the building from which it operates, the former Caithness Glass building, and installing new equipment.
More than two thirds of the company’s 180-strong workforce is based in Wick. The remainder work in showrooms around the country.
The increased capacity and growing demand for AAL products and services is expected to create around 40 new jobs within three years, nearly half of which will be in Wick.
AAL was formed in 1986 by Stephen and Ellen Bremner, initially operating from a small workshop in Thurso. In 2007 it moved to larger premises in Wick, previously occupied by Grampian Records, before leasing additional warehouse space in the nearby former Caithness Glass building.
The business developed a reputation for design and manufacture of a range of bespoke kitchen units as well as bathroom and bedroom furniture. It has continued to expand in line with a growing reputation and increasing demand, with turnover increasing by 54% in the past three years.
The purchase of the building will provide AAL with space to increase production within their existing factory with an estimated corresponding increase in turnover of £3.75m. It will also provide security of tenure in the longer term.
HIE has worked with the company throughout most of its history, providing advice and support on plans for growth. Confirming the HIE investment, business growth account manager Hilary Budge, said:
“AAL has been a major employer in Caithness for nearly 30 years and has grown steadily over the years.
“The strengthening of the company will provide valuable security for existing employees as well as creating new jobs. This in turn will boost the local economy and strengthen community resilience in Wick.
“I am pleased we are able to support this venture and look forward to continuing to work with the company as it implements its growth plans.”
Stephen Bremner, chairman of Ashley Ann Limited, added: “The purchase of the former Caithness Glass building provides an excellent platform for us to take business forward over the next few years. We are delighted with the support we have received from HIE, both on this occasion and in the past. This has helped maintain steady growth of the company over many years to become a significant employer in Caithness and elsewhere.”
Related Articles
Contract awarded for Manufacturing Innovation Centre Moray
A £1.3m contract has been awarded for the refurbishment of a building on Enterprise Park Forres to create the new Manufacturing Innovation Centre Moray (MICM).
Funding boost for new Isle of Mull recording studio
The project is forecast to generate more than £340,000 turnover in the next three years and create three jobs within five years.
Argyll firm to create eDNA lab for aquaculture sector
Underwater ecological survey company Ocean Ecology is developing the state-of-the-art lab in its existing facilities at the European Marine Science Park (EMSP) near Oban.
New support programme launched for food and drink sector
Food and Drink TechHUB will provide financial and advice support to help businesses, including social and community enterprises, with commercial growth and net zero transition activities.
New fund announced to support growth in life sciences sector
The funding can help cover the costs of equipment, new technology or fixtures and fittings, or to construct, adapt or upgrade business premises or other infrastructure.
Lochaber fabrication firm in further expansion
The improvements will enable the company to continue its growth through increased capacity and efficiencies in production.
John O’Groats marks 15 years of ‘remarkable’ transformation
The transformation at John O’Groats has attracted millions of pounds in investment through private, public and community-led initiatives.
‘Unplugged in Stornoway’ event aims to drive tech entrepreneurship
People interested in developing and applying their ideas on the use of technology to start or grow a business can attend in person or online.
Advanced technology will give Caithness firm a competitive edge
The new Leica scanner will enable Envision to offer a broader range of services to existing and new clients.