Caithness.org News Index

Front Page Archives

NORFROST LOOKING TO THE FUTURE WITH NEW STRATEGY AND PRODUCTS
Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise (CASE) has approved a loan of £1.2m for freezer company Norfrost Ltd.

The Castletown-based firm – which was established by Alex and Pat Grant in 1972 – is implementing a new strategy following a review of the company's activities, which will make the firm more commercially competitive for the future.

Norfrost employs over 200 staff in the far north and is the UK's only manufacturer of chest freezers.

A recent strategic review of Norfrost’s operations has identified the need for greater brand presence and for the company to expand its freezer product base in order to boost the profits.

Norfrost at Castletown From The Air

This secured loan from CASE will help the company to develop and market a new range of freezers in different sizes and colours and with the provision of added features, such as enhanced energy efficiency.  These new products, some of which have already been developed, will help position Norfrost at the higher end of the white goods market.

Increased marketing activity to reposition the company's goods is also part of Norfrost’s strategy for the coming years.  The firm will also be setting out a detailed programme of cost reduction actions and a new financial strategy to help meet future market requirements and fluctuations.

Pat Grant, Norfrost chairperson said: “We are pleased for CASE’s support in assisting us to develop the new products, which include innovative features and designs created by our in-house engineering team, enabling us to focus on the continued positioning of the Nofrost brand, synonymous with excellent value and quality.

“This continuing contribution from our engineering  and design teams along with commitment and dedication of all our employees coupled with our commitment to Caithness will lead to a very exciting future.”

Carroll Buxton, chief executive of CASE said: “Norfrost is a long established firm in Caithness and one which has been operating successfully on a global playing field for many years.

“The company is one of the area’s largest employers and CASE is pleased to be able to assist Norfrost to implement their new strategy, which will enhance the firm’s operations and allow it to continue to trade successfully in the future.”