Deal for bravest workers

A business that provides jobs for Armed Forces’veterans has been awarded a place on a multi-million pound national contract.

The four-year Scotland Excel deal for the supply and delivery of road signage materials has been awarded to 11 suppliers, including Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, based at the Erskine charity in Bishopton.

The organisation was launched at the start of this year to provide employment opportunities to Scottish Armed Forces veterans who need support and rehabilitation by enabling them to work and develop independence.

Michelle Ferguson, director at Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, said:“We are delighted to join an 11-strong supplier list on the framework.

“Our organisation is a trading division of the Royal British Legion Industries Ltd and was launched at the start of the year.

“Our aim is to build a dynamic community for veterans that has employment and independence at its heart.”

Councillor John Shaw, convener of Scotland Excel, said he welcomed the award of this framework that will help councils across the country source the road signage they need to keep their road networks operating safely and efficiently.

He added:“This framework is good for business as the 11 suppliers are all SMEs – two of which are micro businesses – and it is also positive for councils as it will deliver savings and has secured fixed prices for a year.

“Being awarded a place on this framework is a great opportunity for the suppliers, which include Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company in Erskine .

“This framework has social responsibility at its core by giving councils the option to source quality products while, at the same time, helping people who face disadvantages, to gain meaningful employment.”

Scotland Excel is the Centre of Procurement Expertise for the local government sector.