Forres farm James Taylor & Son granted more than £160k by Highlands and Islands Enterprise to boost productivity

A family-run, rural agriculture company has started a project aimed at increased production and efficiency, improved quality and job creation.

New state of the art automated plant and machinery at Kintessack-based, James Taylor & Son, including artificial intelligence (AI), is being installed to enhance the seed potato side of the business, which accounts for around two thirds of company turnover.

Development manager in the agency’s Moray team, Keira Orme, confirmed the firm has secured up to £161,446 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards the total costs of £403,616.

She said: “James Taylor & Son has grown steadily over the past 15 years into a thriving business and valuable local employer with significant potential for further growth.

“This project is about enabling the company to secure that growth, and create jobs, while boosting turnover, productivity and product quality.

“I’m very pleased we’ve been able to provide support and look forward to continuing to work with the company’s management team as they take the project forward.”

The equipment will be used to grade the potatoes, select the best quality and remove stones and clods. It will also reduce energy consumption and costs, thereby contributing to the company’s transition to net zero.

James Taylor & Son already employs nine full time equivalent posts plus additional seasonal workers during harvesting. The current project will create three more full time posts within three years, while securing and upskilling the existing workforce.

It is also expected to increase processing capacity by up to six tonnes an hour, almost doubling current levels, while improving and maintaining a high-quality product. This will enable the company to expand its domestic and international markets.

James Taylor & Son partner, Ilene Taylor, said the company is always looking for ways to improve efficiencies.

She finished: “We aim to drive volume of quality Scottish produce through our business. We are delighted to have received support from HIE in reviewing our approach to these challenges and also being an enabler to executing this investment. It is very much appreciated.”