Scottish Export Index names twenty fantastic export businesses

Twenty Scottish businesses were recognised for their exporting excellence and named in the Scottish Export Index which was published this week. 

Produced by UMi, with support from HSBC UK and strategic partners the Scottish Government and Scotland House London, the Scottish Export Index recognised the businesses for their exporting achievements from the 2022 calendar year. 

The Scottish Export Index, formally the Scottish Export Awards, returned this year for the first time since 2018 in recognition of the continued success of Scotland’s exporters on the world stage, which in 2022 accounted for an estimated £41.5bn worth of international exports, excluding oil and gas.

Businesses were named across a number of categories designed to recognise and celebrate the breadth of Scotland’s exporting industry. 

This year’s index had a focus on sustainability, with the introduction of a new Net Zero Exporter category. This category recognised businesses exporting goods and services to meet the goal of a Net Zero economy. In addition, applicants across all categories were asked about their efforts to reduce environmental impact, forming an important criterion in the selection of the index.    

The index features companies of all sizes, from micro exporters such as Articulate Scotland and Edinburgh Honey Co to large and macro exporters such as Glencairn Crystal Studio and PG Paper Company. They represented up to £179.5m worth of export turnover in 2022. 

Scotland’s export strength, diversity and innovation is showcased through the 20 company profiles encompassing food and drink, recycled materials, chemicals, engineering, digital and technical services and homeware and giftware. 

Colin Gilchrist, Co-Founder of Articulate Scotland, a micro exporter of slot-sided frames for children’s 2D and 3D artwork, said: “Being included in the Scottish Export Index top 20 means a lot to me, following hot on the heels of winning Creative Child Award’s Product of the Year 2023 last month. It’s exciting to get recognised continually for going to work every day!” 

Nicki Clark (pictured above), OBE, UMi Chief Executive said: “Congratulations to this year’s businesses named in the Scottish Export Index. With Scotland’s international export industry worth a staggering £45.1bn to the economy, it’s great to see so many business leaders demonstrating resilience in the face of some challenging trading conditions. 

Exporting is the backbone of the Scottish economy and every business named in the index continues to play their part in showcasing Scotland on the world stage. I’m especially pleased to be recognising the commitment many small business owners, including ourselves at UMi, are making to becoming cleaner and greener with our new Net Zero Exporter category.” 

Leigh Briggs, Regional Director of Global Trade & Receivables Finance for North of England & Scotland at HSBC UK said: “HSBC UK is delighted to have supported this year’s Scottish Export Index. This campaign is recognition of the great efforts and excellence demonstrated by Scottish businesses exporting their goods and services, and a very timely celebration given the challenges that many have experienced in the last couple of years. Congratulations to all the companies that made it into the Index.”  

James McLellan, Deputy Director for Trade and Investment Delivery at Scottish Government, said:  ”Exports play a key role in driving Scotland’s economy, with many Scottish companies growing and innovating in sectors where Scotland is at the leading edge internationally.

The index is a great example of recognising and celebrating the successes of Scottish companies in export growth. Through innovation and resilience businesses are supporting their economic recovery and Scotland’s economic future. I would like to congratulate all those recognised in the index and wish them the best of luck in their future.” 

The Scottish Export Index is available to view and download at www.scottishexportindex.co.uk