Port Glasgow firm in the frame for awards double

Michael and Donald McLaren

PORT Glasgow-based McLaren Packaging has announced it has been shortlisted in two categories of the Herald Scottish Family Business Awards.

The firm is in contention for both the Green Family Business of the Year and the Scottish Family Business of the Year (Large) prizes. The recognition follows a year of significant investment at the firm.

Following the death of founder Jim McLaren last year, his sons Donald and Michael, have invested £3 million in the construction of a new 20,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Stirling for subsidiary Blue Box Design. The business has also secured Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) accreditation, which allows consumers to use wood, paper and other forest products produced from well-managed forests and recycled materials.

Sales and marketing director Michael McLaren said, “We’re delighted with this recognition for what has been a significant year of progress for the firm. Together with around three quarters of businesses in Scotland, we are proud to be part of the many family businesses in Scotland contributing to our local communities and to the wider economy.”

McLaren Packaging has set its sights on raising turnover to £20 million by 2020.

The winners of the Herald Scottish Family Business Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Glasgow on December 6.