Whisky Focus - Success Leads To Expansion At Glencairn Crystal

In recognition of the ongoing success of family-owned Glencairn Crystal, Secretary of State for Scotland, Rt Hon. Michael Moore MP on Monday 2 July. visited the firm’s East Kilbride studio to meet the team behind the award-winning company.

The Minister’s visit follows the recent announcement that Glencairn Crystal’s is to receive the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, recognising the business’ outstanding achievement in International Trade. The award acknowledges Glencairn’s substantial growth in existing and new markets which, has led to sales increasing by more than 300% in the last five years to push turnover for 2012 to nearly £5m.

Joined by Glencairn Crystal founder Raymond Davidson and son Andrew for a tour of the Glencairn Studio, Michael Moore also had the opportunity to meet five new local school-leaver recruits. Aged between 16 and 17, the new staff members will undertake a full apprenticeship and training at Glencairn across different aspects of the business from administration to art, engraving and printing. The new appointments increase the total workforce to 37.

Both Glencairn’s workforce expansion and the Queen’s Award for Enterprise are a direct result of the growing international demand, particularly in Asia, for limited edition luxury drink products. As Scotland’s only remaining independent crystal designer and manufacturer, Glencairn Crystal has an established reputation within the drinks industry for its high quality, hand-crafted products. As consumer demand has intensified, Glencairn has become the supplier of choice for companies such as Diageo, Whyte & Mackay, Ian Macleod Distillers, The Edrington Group and William Grant & Son to create their new premium luxury products. This has led to the bespoke projects area of the Glencairn business growing by over 700% in the last five years.

Raymond Davidson, founder of Glencairn Crystal commented: “We are delighted to welcome Michael Moore to Glencairn Crystal. I am immensely proud of the exceptional quality of work that our team produces. It is their hard work that has helped build our reputation as one of the top few specialist crystal designers and manufactures in the world.

“One of the most satisfying parts of Glencairn’s success is being able to support and contribute to the local East Kilbride economy. We worked closely with the local high schools to find the right people for the new apprenticeships and I very much hope they will enjoy working with us for years to come.”

The Secretary of State for Scotland Michael Moore said: "Glencairn Crystal Studio’s international reputation as a premium maker of high quality glass reinforces Scotland’s place on the global stage as a country of expertise and excellence.

"Scottish businesses should be encouraged that growth is possible in the current economic climate and the UK government is working hard to help businesses target to emerging markets overseas."

Glencairn Crystal was established over 30 years ago by Raymond Davidson and is now overseen by Raymond’s three sons, Paul, Scott and Andrew. In addition to special projects and commissions, Glencairn Crystal produces The Glencairn Glass, ‘the official glass for whisky’ and a number of corporate gifts and awards. The company was previously awarded the Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2005 and 2006.
 

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