Argyll manufacturer to develop AI product

An Argyll manufacturing firm is developing a new artificial intelligence (AI) product after securing a £5,000 grant from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

HIE is inviting other companies to get in touch if they’re interested in exploring the business benefits of technology.

The grant was awarded to Lochgilphead based Midton Acrylics Limited, which produces bespoke products from cast acrylic, metals and woods.

The company’s core market has been ‘deal toys’ and ‘financial tombstones’, produced for organisations commemorating the conclusion of significant contracts or completion of deals.

It also manufactures trophies for nationally and internationally recognised ceremonies such as TV awards and NBA super-league awards in the USA.

HIE has worked with Midton over several years, providing various forms of support during the company’s expansion.

This latest initiative will involve consultancy costs for specialist advice to help Midton develop an AI tool that will improve the speed and quality of their design process at the quote stage. The tool will be made to produce variations of the core concept as alternatives; something that currently has to be done by the design team.

This is expected to open opportunities in new markets as the team will be able to produce more design concepts faster and more efficiently.

HIE is keen to hear from other businesses looking to adopt more advanced technology in their operations. Morag Goodfellow, HIE’s area manager for Argyll and the Islands, said:

“This project by Midton Acrylics is a great example of how advanced technology can be used to improve efficiency and profitability. I’m delighted we’ve been able to provide support and would welcome approaches from other companies interested in exploring what advanced technology such as AI could do for them.”

Graham Ramsay director at Midton Acrylics said:

“At Midton, we’re always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible in design and manufacturing. This support from HIE allows us to take a big step forward in streamlining our concept creation and quoting process through AI.

“By delivering high-quality visuals and faster turnaround times, we’ll be better placed to win more work in an increasingly competitive market. It’s about working smarter, giving our team more time to focus on creativity and our clients more value at speed.”