Social enterprise that supports veterans awarded to signage framework

A supported business that provides jobs for veterans has been awarded a place on a multi-million pound framework that will help Scotland’s councils source road signs.

The four-year Scotland Excel framework for the supply and delivery of road signage materials has been awarded to 10 suppliers, including Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, in Erskine.

The organisation was launched in 2018 to provide employment opportunities to Armed Forces veterans who need support and rehabilitation, enabling them to work and develop independence.

All 10 suppliers awarded to the framework are SMEs and now have an opportunity to secure a share of its business – estimated to be worth £5m over four years.

Councillor John Shaw, Convener of Scotland Excel said: “I welcome the award of this framework which will help councils across the country source the road signage they need to keep their road networks operating safely and efficiently.

“This framework is good for business as all suppliers are SMEs, and include a micro business. It is also positive for councils as it will deliver savings and has secured fixed prices for a year.

“Being awarded a place on this framework is a great opportunity for the suppliers, which include Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company in Erskine - a social enterprise and a supported business.

“The framework has social responsibility at its core. It gives councils the option to source quality products while at the same time helping people who face disadvantages, to gain meaningful employment.”

Robert Lappin, Assistant Director at Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, said: “We are delighted to be awarded a place on the framework. It will play an important part in our business development and helps create wider relationships. Councils buying from us will be directly supporting our mission to help veterans and others with disabilities regain their independence through employment at Scotland’s Bravest”.

All suppliers have committed to delivering community benefits over the course of the framework.

The suppliers are: 

• Ansco Signs Limited, Micro business, Muir Of Ord, Highlands
• Royal British Legion Industries Ltd (Scotland's Bravest), SME, Renfrewshire
• William Smith Group 1832 Limited, SME, Country Durham
• Limelight Signs Limited, SME, Lancashire  
• P.F Cusack (Tools Suppliers) Limited, SME, Glasgow
• Mallatite Limited, SME, South Lanarkshire
• Street Lighting Supplies & Co Ltd, SME, Grangemouth, Falkirk
• Stocksigns Limited, SME, Redhill, Surrey
• Swarco UK & Ireland Ltd, SME, Basingstoke
• Coeval Limited, SME, Glasgow