During a tour of Alloa glass factory ‘O-I Manufacturing’ Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser met with key representatives from both the factory and its European arm.
O-I Manufacturing is the world’s biggest glass container producer and employs over 27,000 people globally, with glass having been produced on the Alloa site since the 18th century.
The Alloa plant is Scotland’s largest glass factory and produces 300,000 tonnes of glass annually.
Commenting on the visit, Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“It was a great opportunity to meet with those who are creating manufacturing jobs in Alloa, and it was very interesting to understand some of the issues currently facing the industry.
“The factory is a living and breathing example of why investors should look to Scotland as a home for manufacturing.
“Nonetheless, the Scottish Government must do more to support innovators and manufacturers in Scotland.
“High energy prices are placing strain on industries across Scotland and the Scottish Government needs to offset these problems by providing support that will allow greater efficiency and a better trained workforce.
“The shale gas revolution has given life to industry in the US, if we can experience a similar boom in the UK then energy intensive industries could reap the benefits.”