Computing firm chooses Capital base

A LEADING United States computing company has chosen Edinburgh as its European headquarters.

Minneapolis-based enStratus has begun recruiting key staff ready for opening its base in the Capital later this year and says it will create up to 30 highly skilled jobs by the end of 2014.

The company has been given a Regional Selective Assistance grant totalling £240,000. Scottish Enterprise said the cash, awarded for job creation, was based on strict criteria.

EnStratus specialises in “cloud computing”, a way for businesses to take advantage of storage and services through the internet, saving money on infrastructure and support.

Its European headquarters will be based at Edinburgh University’s Appleton Tower, which is also home to part of the School of Informatics, a recognised centre for cutting-edge technology.

The announcement was made by Culture and External Affairs Secretary Fiona Hyslop during a visit to Chicago as part of the US’ Scotland Week 2012.

She said: “Scotland is globally renowned for innovation, enterprise and technology. The quality and skills of our workforce in the digital sector have played an important part in the company’s decision to locate its European office in Edinburgh, as has the research excellence of our institutions and the competitiveness of our business environment.

“This investment demonstrates commitment to Scotland and confidence in what we have to offer. It can only enhance our international reputation as a fantastic investment location.”

During the Chicago visit, she met George Reese, enStratus’ chief technology officer. He said: “EnStratus is excited to open our new office in Edinburgh, to serve our expanding customer base as well as our development and support needs. We have selected Scotland to establish our new European office because of the development resources, transport infrastructure, and the favourable exchange rate.”

Anne MacColl, chief executive of government agency Scottish Development International, said the fact enStratus had chosen Edinburgh as its European base was testament to Scotland’s growing reputation as the ideal place to invest and do business.

She said: “Scottish Development International and Scottish Enterprise have worked closely with enStratus to provide an integrated package of support towards the opening of this new office.

“We look forward to helping the company realise its ambitious growth plans in Scotland – driving long-term sustainable growth back into the Scottish economy.”