In what is being hailed as a major boost for Dundee, the manufacturing firm Wilkies announced it is relocating to the city and takes a majority stake in Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc, with further investment in infrastructure, technology, and development of £50 million, representing a transformational step for the business and the city.
This decision comes almost six years after the closure of the Michelin Tyre Factory in Dundee and marks a new chapter for the MSIP site. The relocation of Wilkies from both its Kirriemuir and Forfar sites to Dundee could bring as many as 400 jobs to the city, with transport provided for workers travelling from Kirriemuir, 18 miles away. It ultimately hopes to expand that number to as many as 600 jobs as part of ambitious growth plans.
This is the second move for Wilkies' within two years and underlines the commitment to updating the company.
The facilities in Kirriemuir could no longer support advanced manufacturing demands, whereas the purpose-built site in Dundee can fully accommodate state-of-the-art technologies and more environmentally considerate manufacturing methods.
Wilkies will also greatly reduce its carbon footprint with the added benefit of increased production, having full access to the Innovation Parc's wind turbines and MVV Waste to Energy plant.
With due respect to the impact it has had on the community in Kirriemuir, Wilkies has promised to leave the former site in the best state possible and engage the community in its redevelopment.
It is committed to supporting current employees through this change with detailed consultation and support plans.
This development marks a further indication of Dundee's growing reputation as a center for advanced manufacturing and innovation. This investment and expansion by Wilkies will further allow the city to establish itself as a center for sustainable industry and technological development.
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