SCRABSTER ANNOUNCES RECORD REVENUES

Jul 01 2015

Scotland’s most northerly mainland commercial harbour has reported a 16% increase in revenue, in 2014/2015, bringing in a record £2.8million.

Scrabster Harbour, which has had more than £35million invested in it throughout the last 10 years, has seen an increase in demand and services over the past year across a range of sectors.

Scrabster Harbour Trust, which operates the port, took the strategic decision in 2007 to further develop the Caithness port to increase its offering to attract growth in the energy sector. Whilst also improving facilities and services to traditional areas, such as fishing and general cargo. The first phase of the ambitious development plan, the creation of the new Jubilee Quay, was completed in 2013.

Future development plans for the port forecast investment increasing to more than £50million, further increasing the infrastructure and services available at the northern port.

Sandy Mackie, Trust Manager said: “It is a very exciting time for us here at Scrabster Harbour. We have been consistently ambitious in our vision for the harbour and local area. Improved infrastructure compliments our strategic location, quality supply chain and competitive port prices. The draft financial results for 2014-15 shows that the strategy is already reaping dividends for the port and the wider economy.”

“The past year has seen an increase in vessel arrivals, vessel tonnages and the volume of cargo handled at the port. The increase in revenue is great news for us and we will strive to continue the good work we have so far put in.”

The Trust also invested in a contemporary marketing plan to support its overall growth strategy. The Harbour itself has seen a complete rebrand and the trust recently launched a new website to give the port a more modern look and feel.

Sandy said: “The Board recognised the need to invest in our marketing in order to move the business forward. We believe the new corporate identity complements the direction in which we aim to take Scrabster Harbour.”

Scrabster Harbour Trust was established in 1841 and operates a multi-purpose port on the North coast of Scotland. Scrabster is a key hub of economic activity in the region, catering for a wide variety of sectors such as oil and gas, renewables, fishing and cruise ships. The harbour offers extensive facilities, with 24/7, 365 days a year access to the port. The Harbour possesses a strong local supply chain and is one of the UK’s top whitefish and shellfish landing ports.