MCALPINE WELCOMES MAJOR NEW CONTRACT FOR ANNAN BOILERMAKERS

Industrial boiler plant makers Cochran Ltd signed a three year partnership with Hong Kong and China Gas Ltd to upgrade Industrial Systems across China to make them more environmentally friendly.

Cochran estimates the new deal to be worth more than £3 million with up to 20 new jobs created in Annan over the next three years.

Ms McAlpine brought the First Minister to visit the Newbie firm last year where he was fully briefed on the business and the aspirations of its new Chinese owners.

During his visit the First Minister indicated that he was hugely impressed with their products and offered the support of the Scottish Government to assist the business with its development projects going forward in both Scotland and China.

The latest announcement comes as part of a series of Chinese contracts secured for Scottish firms worth £40 million.

Commenting Ms McAlpine said:

“It’s fantastic news that Annan is set to benefit from the growing demand in China for Scottish expertise and good quality products.

“Cochran Ltd is one of the biggest employers in the region and the additional jobs created as a result of this deal will be really positive news for the local community.

“This is also an exciting opportunity for Cochran to grow the brand and invest in new technologies in China whilst maintaining their manufacturing expertise in Scotland.”

The SNP MSP added:

“I was delighted that the First Minister accepted my invitation to accompany me to Annan last year to meet with key players and look at the way forward for Cochran Ltd. and It is great that we have seen such tangible outcomes for the firm as a result of his visit.”

Picture by Bryan Armstrong