US motor parts firm creates 80 Scots jobs

Published on 02/10/2012 02:40

A US vehicle parts company is to invest in a centre of excellence based in Scotland’s largest city.

The expansion of AAM Europe’s Albion Automotive site will support around 80 jobs in Scotstoun, Glasgow.

A new manufacturing and engineering centre has already been established and the company said it will invest around £3 million in equipment and machinery, as well as in research and development.

It is being part-funded by Scottish Enterprise with a regional selective assistance grant of £480,000 and a research and development grant of £94,000.

The announcement follows a meeting between First Minister Alex Salmond and representatives from the company in 
Chicago last week.

Mr Salmond said the decision reflects the strengths of the Scottish engineering industry and described it as “great news for Glasgow”.

He said: “Scotland has an established reputation for excellence in engineering, product and process design and AAM Europe’s decision to establish a new manufacturing and engineering centre supporting 80 jobs in Glasgow highlights their commitment to the city and the local workforce, and takes forward over 100 years of Scottish engineering and motoring history under the Albion name.

“The Scottish Government and Scottish Development International continue to do all we can to secure new jobs and investment to Scotland. The company’s decision to expand their operations reflects the strength of our engineering industry and I wish the company and its employees continued success.”

AAM Europe executive director William Smith said: “It has been a pleasure for the AAM team to work with the Scottish Development International and Scottish Enterprise in obtaining support for our new business in Scotland. With their excellent support in obtaining RSA and R&D grants, AAM Europe has been able to add important new business to our portfolio.”