Aberdeenshire businessman Steven Mitchell said yesterday he had no regrets about launching a subsea piping business in the middle of an oil and gas industry downturn.
The new venture, Subsea Piping Solutions (SPS), based in Colpy is going from strength to strength in its first year, he said.
SPS now employs three people and Mr Mitchell, along with fellow director David Duncan, has ambitious plans to increase this to 20 over the next two years.
The company, which specialises in specialises in instrument piping and welding, has already won contracts overseas and the duo behind it are keen to expand internationally.
Mr Mitchell, who lives in Rothienorman and has worked in piping for more than 20 years, including in excess of 15 years in teh oil and gas industry, said: “Times are difficult out there but I’m optimistic that the north-east will get through the downturn and be better off for it in the long run.
“Some people think I’m mad starting up in business when the price of oil is so low, but I think it’s one of the best times to start as it gives you drive and a clear focus.
“I’m certainly not taking anything for granted but I have no regrets; starting up on my own has been one of the best things I ever did.”
He added: “I’ve worked hard over the years and built up a level of expertise that I feel will help to differentiate SPS in the market. I’m now looking forward to the year ahead, as we look to take on more contracts, both here and overseas.”
A six-figure sum was invested in the launch of SPS earlier this year. The cash has partly been used to fund equipment including a high-tech “orbital” welder, which will be used mainly for pipe instrumentation on complex structures and subsea infrastructure.
Mr Steven, who previously ran a pipework services business on his own, said: “The equipment that we’ve invested in will help us to produce a high quality finish that will potentially offer a longer life span for the structures and equipment it’s used on.
“This will save our clients a lot of money in the long run, which is a huge benefit for them and one that we hope to capitalise on.”
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