Is Scotland's manufacturing sector 'fuelling a national resurgence'?

The Herald Scotland

20 hours ago

Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal production – spanning manufacturing, mining and energy – rose by 1.1% in the first quarter of 2025, surpassing expectations. In a global climate marked by uncertainty and subdued growth forecasts, this uptick signals domestic industry may still have the strength to anchor economic renewal.
It's a result Sir Keir Starmer and Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar were no doubt hoping for when they visited Window Supply Company (WSC) in Whitburn in June 2024, ahead of the General Election. Few stories illustrate this renewed optimism better than WSC, a fast-growing manufacturer founded in 2019. The company has expanded from a single-site operation to a national brand, now boasting 11 trade counters across the UK and nearly 200 employees, 181 of whom are based in Scotland.
'As a Scottish manufacturer, we are passionate about supporting the local community in which we operate, creating jobs and contributing to the local economy,' says Chief Executive Duncan Murray.
Its story is emblematic of what is possible when modern manufacturing meets smart economic strategy and a deep sense of social responsibility. I may not be a window expert but what I do recognise is the importance of sustainability and the value of local manufacturing. These are not abstract ideals; they are principles brought vividly to life by the success of WSC.
To truly understand WSC's impact, we need to view it through the lens of the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic and social. Each is integral to how this company is not only scaling its operations, but doing so in a way that delivers lasting, tangible benefits – to people, to communities and to the planet.
(Image: Peter Lawson) Environmentally, WSC is answering one of the housing sector's most pressing challenges: the urgent demand for energy-efficient, low-carbon retrofit solutions. At the heart of its innovation is the Zero|90 window, which is Passivhaus-certified, meeting one of the most stringent global benchmarks for thermal performance and airtightness.
'Zero|90 achieves U-values as low as 0.66 W/m²K and can save homeowners up to £15,000 over 35 years,' explains Kerry Mackie, Business Development Director. However, the numbers tell only part of the story. The Zero|90 is as sustainable in design as it is in performance. Its core is made from recycled materials and, crucially, it's fully recyclable at the end of its lifespan – a vital asset in an age where plastic waste has become endemic. The window also cuts noise pollution by up to 42 decibels, a feature growing ever more relevant for tenants grappling with the relentless hum of urban life.
Crucially, WSC's Zero|90R variant has been engineered with Scotland's historic housing stock in mind –particularly the pre-1919 tenements that define much of the nation's urban landscape. It's a smart solution with significant implications: the rebated design allows the unit to slot seamlessly into existing timber frames, preserving cherished internal finishes while delivering state-of-the-art energy performance.
It's not only theoretical innovation – it's already making a difference. Zero|90R units are being installed by Valley Group in homes managed by Shettleston Housing Association, as well as in council-owned properties across Edinburgh. These installations are directly contributing to local authorities' ambitions for net-zero readiness, while helping tenants benefit from warmer, quieter and more energy-efficient homes.
From an economic standpoint, WSC exemplifies how sustainable manufacturing can not only revitalise Scotland's industrial base but also deliver real value to the public sector. By maintaining full control of its production process at a sprawling 105,000 sq. ft. facility, the company ensures quality, consistency, and cost-effectiveness.
'Public sector clients need more than just a good price – they need long-term value, compliance, and reliability,' says Managing Director Barry Duncan. WSC's lean and demand-responsive production model enables an industry-leading eight-day lead time – a crucial advantage in a sector too often plagued by delays. Smart innovations such as QR-coded windows, which streamline asset management and maintenance, add further efficiency and transparency.
The company's growth has been striking from 26 employees in 2019 to 194 today – a remarkable 646% increase. This expansion isn't just about headcount; it reflects a ripple effect of economic uplift, with job creation, local supply chain strengthening, and investment staying within Scotland. By anchoring its operations locally, WSC supports the broader Scottish economy – while reducing transport emissions, shortening delivery timelines, and helping ensure the value created by public spending – the so-called 'Scottish pound' – circulates where it matters most: in Scottish communities.
On the social sustainability front, WSC exemplifies a people-first ethos. As a Real Living Wage accredited employer, the company prioritises staff wellbeing, fair pay and inclusive growth. 'We lead with the heart and always try to make the right decisions by our employees,' says Murray. 'From Perkbox benefits to 24/7 support, we want to be the employer of choice in Scottish manufacturing.'
Beyond internal operations, WSC engages actively with schools, colleges and local job programmes. Through a partnership with West Lothian's Skills Training Programme, it has helped young people aged 16-24 transition into stable employment in production roles. The future for WSC is in the social housing space. The Scottish Government's ongoing commitment to delivering thousands of new and upgraded affordable homes has made the public sector a key growth area for WSC.
'We view this sector as a long-term growth opportunity – one that allows us to scale with purpose,' says Mackie. 'Beyond product sales, it's about supporting regeneration and reducing fuel poverty.' Through strategic investments, robust product performance, and deep local knowledge, WSC is positioning itself not just as a manufacturer but as a partner in Scotland's drive towards a net-zero, socially inclusive future. In a competitive marketplace, WSC sets itself apart through agility, transparency and trust.
Where multinational suppliers may offer scale, WSC brings proximity, speed and a long-term, partnership-based approach. 'While policy can change, our products and purpose won't,' says Duncan. 'We're building a business – and a Scotland – that's fit for the future.'
Whether it's reducing household energy bills, supporting local employment or helping councils meet strict building and carbon standards, WSC shows that modern manufacturing can deliver lasting, meaningful change. It's more than economic growth. It's a model for sustainable prosperity –made in Scotland, for Scotland.
Dr Antoinette Fionda-Douglas is co-founder of Beira, and assistant professor at Heriot-Watt University