A Dingwall-based business is expanding its manufacturing capacity with a £750,000 investment, which is expected to double production capabilities and create new jobs.
WoodBlocX makes kits for building raised beds and landscaping gardens.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise awarded £188,000 for the project, which will create four new jobs this year.
A second manufacturing facility will be built, with a view to increase exports and improve overall productivity.
Henry Blake started WoodBlocX in 2012 as a small local business and it has grown into an international online firm with substantial domestic and commercial divisions throughout the UK and EU.
Based on a patented system, the product lets wooden blocks be assembled to create a multitude of structures for the garden. It can be used for retaining walls, steps, outdoor seating and ponds.
The company has produced more than 40,000 bespoke designs for gardens all over the UK and beyond.
WoodBlocX plans to install new plant and equipment, including saws, dust extractors and a waste conveyor. These additions should increase production capacity and ensure continued service quality.
The intention over the next three years is to drive international turnover from £2.5m to £5m.
To help its expansion, WoodBlocX has recently purchased a new storage and distribution facility in Dingwall and has also created a European subsidiary with a distribution hub in Frankfurt to serve the continent.
With the new production facility, the business expects to expand its growth further into Europe but also targets new markets in the US.
The firm won the backing of Dragon’s Den’s Peter Jones in 2012 and in the same year won awards at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
The company employs 16 staff in Dingwall, two in Frankfurt and plans to recruit four new production employees in Dingwall over the next year.
Managing director Blake said: “This investment will make the business more efficient and will provide the tools needed for its continued expansion.
“It will also enable us to increase our contribution to the local economy and provide more high-quality employment opportunities, which is an area that we are incredibly passionate about.”
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