Moray creative firm expands

Northport in Elgin has secured a £35,622 investment from Highlands and Island Enterprise (HIE) for the project. It will include establishing a new studio and purchasing new equipment.

The firm will also re-develop it’s branding and social media strategy in line with findings from a recent market visit to the US.

Northport produces screen content for organisations in both the private and public sectors, with clients including multinational companies in the textiles, food and drink and travel industries.

The company has two directors; Tom Duncan, an Elgin-born cinematographer, and Dianne Stevenson, a producer and music supervisor.

Working for its US clients, it has been on film commissions in Asia, Europe and South America. Management plan to expand the US client base, and explore other global markets, which offer high value opportunities for international trade.

Scott McKnockiter, business development account manager with HIE in moray, said:

“We are delighted to be supporting this ambitious local firm, which forms part of Moray’s growing creative industries sector. UK video advertising spend is forecast to grow significantly, even in the short term. This project will strengthen the position of Northport, lead to the firm’s continued growth and allow it to target new opportunities and markets.

“As the business develops, it will also create potential to employ more young people, through apprenticeships, graduate placements and staff development programmes. All of this will benefit the local economy and contribute to wider efforts to attract and retain new talent.”

Tom Duncan, Northport managing director, said:

“We’re delighted to be taking Northport to the next level and our relationship with HIE has been crucial in determining that path.  Our new studio will create a focal point for film and creative activity in the area while our new high spec camera platform will push the quality of our work even further.”

Dianne Stevenson, director, said:

“It’s a quantum leap for us, as a homegrown business with international ambition.  We’re excited to grow our export market whilst living and working in Moray.”