Moray agriculture firm in £400k growth project

A family run agriculture company in Moray has embarked on a major growth project that will increase production and efficiency, improve product quality and create jobs.

James Taylor & Son, operating at Kintessack near Forres, has secured up to £161,446 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards total project costs of £403,616.

New state of the art automated plant and machinery, including artificial intelligence (AI), is being installed to enhance the seed potato side of the business, which accounts for around two thirds of company turnover.

The equipment will be used to grade the potatoes, select the best quality and remove stones and clods. It will also reduce energy consumption and costs, thereby contributing to the company’s transition to net zero.

James Taylor & Son already employs nine full time equivalent posts plus additional seasonal workers during harvesting. The current project will create three more full time posts within three years, while securing and upskilling the existing workforce.

It is also expected to increase processing capacity by up to six tonnes an hour, almost doubling current levels, while improving and maintaining a high-quality product. This will enable the company to expand its domestic and international markets.

Confirming the HIE funding, Keira Orme development manager in the agency’s Moray Team, said:

“James Taylor & Son has grown steadily over the past 15 years into a thriving business and valuable local employer with significant potential for further growth. This project is about enabling the company to secure that growth, and create jobs, while boosting turnover, productivity and product quality.

“I’m very pleased we’ve been able to provide support and look forward to continuing to work with the company’s management team as they take the project forward.”

Ilene Taylor, partner at James Taylor & Son, said:

“We are constantly looking for ways to improve our efficiencies and drive volume of quality Scottish produce through our business. We are delighted to have received support from HIE in reviewing our approach to these challenges and also being an enabler to executing this investment.  It is very much appreciated.”