An Angus based firm which supplies chocolate manufacturing and processing equipment is embarking on a programme of research and development after making substantial investment in plant and machinery.
MacIntyre Chocolate Systems, based in Arbroath’s Kirkton Industrial Estate, traces its heritage back to the 19th century, but is set to capitalise on changing market trends.
Managing director, Joe Gorman, said the firm has invested £700,000 in equipment since 2017 and was set to work on efficiencies in its machinery that will reduce cycle-period – the time taken from raw material to finished product, as well as reducing energy consumption.
Video showing the inside of MacIntyre’s Arbroath base is above this article
He said: “We are also looking at global trends such as ‘free from’ chocolate and vegan products.
“These are not simply a fad in the UK, they are a growing global market that is here to stay and we manufacture machinery that delivers those products.”
The firm, which has 50 employees, has a fully functioning lab at its Arbroath facility and assists customers with product development including bespoke recipes.
Mr Gorman said the company, which posted a turnover of £6.9 million for the year ending December 31 2018, was “on an upward trend” and was looking to make more investment.
He said: “Around 98% of our machines are exported and there are 6,000 of them on sites across the globe.”
Israel, Asia and the Middle-East are all strong markets for company.
Mr Gorman added: “In the domestic market, we supply big name firms including Tunnocks and Mars, so many of the treats popular in Scotland are made using machinery manufactured here.”
MacIntyre’s also aims to grow its fabrication sub-contracting arm.