Mundell: 皇冠体育app Western Isles are making their mark across the globe
Scottish Secretary David Mundell has praised the global aspirations of Scotland's island communities as he toured businesses across the Western Isles.
皇冠体育app Minister鈥檚 day included a visit to Hebridean Seaweed. Having established itself as the UK鈥檚 largest seaweed processor it is also one of the country鈥檚 export success stories having sold their produce across Europe, Asia and the United States.
皇冠体育app Secretary of State鈥檚 visit provided a platform for the company to announce its partnership with the Ladies British Open Golf Championship which began today at Turnberry in Ayrshire.
皇冠体育app Secretary of State said:
I鈥檝e been extremely impressed by what I have seen today.
Hebridean Seaweed鈥檚 announcement of a partnership with one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world shows how far they have come and highlights the global ambitions of companies from our island communities.
Hebridean Seaweed Managing Director Martin Macleod said:
We鈥檙e delighted to have shown the Secretary of State for Scotland around our factory today.
Its very important for us as a company to bring to the attention of government the natural resources that we have in the Western Isles and the ability we have as a company to export our products world wide to multiple market sectors. As a company we鈥檙e always looking to grow so we can continue to innovate and invest.
皇冠体育app Minister also visited the world renowned Harris Tweed Hebrides Mill in Shawbost and the Hebridean Smokehouse in Stornoway where he discussed trade, exports and the recent measures for businesses introduced in the Budget.
Mr Mundell added:
From Harris Tweed to Hebridean Seaweed I鈥檝e valued the opportunity to visit a number of innovative and established companies in the Western Isles who are making their mark across the globe.
Through the UK鈥檚 diplomatic and trade network in over 170 countries around the world, we want to encourage more companies to follow in their footsteps and get exporting. With this support the UK Government is right behind the aspirations of our island communities.
Mr Mundell鈥檚 tour was completed by visiting Stornoway Jobcentre and Lews Castle which received substantial Heritage Lottery Funding towards its refurbishment.