Aberdeenshire-based deck-machinery specialist Ace Winches said yesterday it had completed its largest export contract.
The £4.2million winch package is for Superior Energy Services, of Houston, and has been built to withstand the most severe conditions in the Arctic.
Also yesterday, the firm welcomed Scotland’s first minister and local MSP, Alex Salmond, to its Towie Barclay Works headquarters, near Turriff.
Chief executive Alfie Cheyne, who founded Ace in 1992, said of the Superior order: “This contract is the next step in our strategy to become a significant player in north and south American markets, and further cements our reputation for delivering exceptional service and performance in the world’s harshest operating environments.”
Mr Salmond said Ace had recognised the huge potential in world markets and praised its vision to become a global centre of excellence in winching technology and hardware supply. He added: “Ace’s exciting expansion plans show a dynamic and ambitious local employer going from strength to strength. Scotland has huge potential to export its first-class technological capabilities and Ace Winches is grasping these exciting opportunities, driving forward the company and actively promoting its knowledge and innovation abroad.
“Ace is a key employment provider and it is the homegrown expertise of this workforce that will help see Ace realise its impressive vision for the future.”
Ace now employs 240 people worldwide, with 180 at its headquarters.
With about 70% of its turnover from overseas markets, it is looking to grow its number of international bases.
The firm says it has a strong commitment to youth employment, training, research and development.
Ace is investing £11million at its Towie Barclay Works campus, which includes its own training academy.