NEWS


Barcaldine company grasps new opportunities by diversifying its operations

A Barcaldine based company that has developed a worldwide reputation for the supply of fish farm equipment is using its experience in plastics technology to diversify its business by developing a range of outdoor furniture and other leisure products made from recycled plastic.

Fusion Marine, which operates out of the Marine Resource Centre in Barcaldine, has for many years been at the forefront of supplying fish farm cages and other aquaculture equipment to Scottish and international fish farmers.

Much of the equipment is made from tough polyethylene and in recent years Fusion Marine has been involved in refurbishing and recycling old fish farm cages. It was while engaged in such projects that managing director Stephen Divers recognised that there could be real potential in becoming involved in the supply of a range of outdoor products made from recycled plastic, including benches, picnic tables, fences and boardwalks.

Divers says: “Recycled plastic is incredibly tough and has a very long lifespan, and it occurred to us there could be a good market for supplying products such as outdoor furniture and fencing that would provide a sustainable alternative to wood.

“We feel there is a good market in places such as caravan parks, holiday parks, nature reserves and other outdoor areas for such products, given that they are environmentally friendly and virtually maintenance free.”

Already Fusion Marine has received several orders for its products, including for a golf course in Moray and the supply of picnic benches along the Caledonian Canal. It has also just recently completed a recycled plastic boardwalk for a nature reserve in Hermaness in Shetland.

“It is important in today’s economic climate to be able to diversify and use your experience and knowledge to good effect. We are pleased with how the recycled plastic side of the business is developing, and if the expansion continues, hopefully we will be able to offer new employment opportunities in the local area.”

A selection of the recycled plastic product range can be viewed at www.fusionrecycledplastic.com