Dumfries and Galloway-based Jas P Wilson — a supplier of forestry equipment, machinery and engineering services — is positioning itself for growth after investing in ‘green’ measures at its Dalbeattie facility, following a £695,000 funding package from Bank of Scotland.

The company will focus on its green credentials and increase efficiency, after benefitting from the bank’s £2 billion Clean Growth Finance Initiative (CGFI).

Over the next four years, it will implement a range of green infrastructure improvements to its production processes and the heating of its factories.

This includes new insulation, glazing and cladding, plus the installation of a new biomass boiler fuelled from sustainable sources. There will also be a purpose-built training centre.

Founded in 1964, Jas P Wilson (www.jaspwilson.co.uk) now occupies a 20,000m² site that includes a workshop, design studios, offices and training room.

The new plans will see its two factories joined together by a new building housing offices — and a showroom for customers.

Plans are also under way to boost the company’s turnover from £11 million to £14 million by 2021 and increase the workforce from 55 to 75 people.

Company director Billy Wilson director said: “Our current premises are outdated and need major development, if we’re to stay on top of what is a £1 billion industry here in Scotland.

"Half of our sales are completed face-to-face, with around 1,000 customers visiting our site each year.

"We want to provide a professional and sustainable space that will help us continue to grow, while meeting our customers’ needs as they too become more eco-conscious.”