Kelso company gets award for innovation

The funding has come from a £211m government investment package to encourage businesses to develop new technologies and aims to fast-track the development of innovations borne out of the coronavirus crisis.

Alistair Cameron, managing director at Scotmas – which also makes products for the agriculture, food processing and oil and gas industries – said: “Scotmas was delighted to receive funding from Innovate UK to assist with our efforts in bringing forward a new range of medical-grade sanitiser products for use in the home.

“These products build on the technologies we have used in the healthcare sector for a number of years, and will provide increased peace of mind to vulnerable groups as lockdown restrictions begin to ease across the country.”

Borders MP John Lamont said: “Coronavirus has brought unique challenges to every business in the UK.

“I have been heartened by the drive by Borders businesses to go above and beyond for their customers and their local communities.

“This includes the great team at Scotmas who have been producing hand gels to help out the national effort.

“I am delighted that they have also been able to make use of this funding stream, to help with their continued innovation.

“Of course, there are still challenging times ahead for all businesses.

“It is important as we progress through the phases back to normality that businesses receive the support they need to survive and thrive.”

Funding has been awarded to a wide range of businesses and projects across the UK, including virtual farmers markets and the development of virtual reality surgical training simulators.

More Scottish companies are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.