A BOAT BUILDING revolution is taking place in Moray with an entirely new concept rigid inflatable being produced in Buckie that is helping a local firm treble their profit.
Probond Marine (PBM) say that they will be expanding with six new jobs created in the Moray town as a result of their cooperation with designer Barry Carson to produce his commercial and military RIBs.
Now the firm, which set up in Buckie two years ago on the back of a £65,000 grant from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), say that the latest Carson Interceptor range is set to provide a major boost at their March Road premises.
Already orders worth around £700,000 have been received from buyers in the United States, Far East and Scandinavia – all impressed by the uniquely shaped hull that makes the vessel faster under testing conditions.
The firm say that the “truly unique” hull design offers a new boat capable of several roles, from workboat to high-speed operations.
During a visit to the firm this week HIE’s business account manager Karen Peasnall said: “These new plans combine innovation, ambition and huge potential to make significant inroads into international markets.”
Colin MacAndrew, founder of PBM, added: “We are delighted to have secured a grant from HIE towards the construction of a demonstrator of our latest Carson Interceptor Class of RIBs and workboats.
“The in-house hull design is truly unique and will allow PBM to offer the maritime industry a truly unique vessel capable of multiple roles from workboat duties to long-range high-speed operations.
“We have plans for significant growth over the next few years allowing us to meet the growing demand for our boats and services.”