One of Aberdeen’s best-known family businesses is moving to new headquarters in the city, it was revealed last night.
Craig Group has been based at Aberdeen harbour since it was formed in 1933, but has now signed a deal to purchase a building in the west end.
The development was announced by managing director Douglas Craig at a dinner in the Marcliffe Hotel, held to mark the firm’s 75th anniversary.
The global shipping and energy services group, which has its roots in the fishing industry, currently employs 1,000 people in its four divisions operating in offshore support vessels, oilfield procurement, fishing and leisure. Annual turnover exceeds £100million.
Craig Group will relocate its HQ to 12 Queens Road – currently leased to Advanteq – by the end of the year.
Mr Craig said: “We are sad to be leaving Albert Quay, which is being redeveloped by Aberdeen Harbour Board, as it has been our home for so long.
“We are very pleased to have secured such prestigious offices in the heart of the city’s west end, particularly when demand for this type of office accommodation is so high.
“It will certainly be a change for us but the offices, which we are fully refurbishing, will offer a much more attractive and modern environment for our staff.”
All 45 employees based at Albert Quay will move to the new premises.
Mr Craig said about the group: “One of the reasons we have stayed the course is that we have continued to evolve and capitalise on the opportunities in the oil and gas industry. Today we are wholly focused on growing our core businesses of shipping and oilfield procurement.
“Our robust financial position, with almost zero gearing, gives us the capacity as well as the appetite to invest in our fleet and in our people to continually enhance our service offering.
“In addition to organic growth, we will consider acquisitions that complement these core activities going forward both in the UK and globally.”
Last night’s 130 guests included First Minister Alex Salmond.
He said: “The Craig Group has been a significant and trusted employer in the north-east for 75 years.
“Its contribution to Scotland’s economy, particularly in the north-east, is considerable.
“It is especially important and encouraging that, despite the current economic conditions, we see a longstanding family business like the Craig Group choosing to keep its headquarters and business in Aberdeen, continuing its valuable role in the local and wider economy.”
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