One of Scotland’s leading windows and conservatories company, CR Smith, is expanding its Factory Direct operation into the north of Scotland.

The supply only service for self-build and trade customers has been operating across the central belt and is currently responsible for delivering over 800 units a month. But, a recent pilot in Inverness instantly saw a demand and from a standing start, Factory Direct sold over 100 units in the first month.

All the windows are manufactured by CR Smith in its Fife-based factory and meet the new energy efficiency standards, which customers want.


The company is now looking to recruit in Inverness and Aberdeen as it builds on the potential in the Highlands and Aberdeenshire.

Colin Eadie heads up Factory Direct. He said: “Getting high quality windows at factory door prices is a very attractive proposition and we’ve found that there are plenty of sole traders and small building firms who see working with CR Smith as a benefit.

“Building work is still going on in the north of Scotland, albeit on a smaller scale and we’re happy to support that. The fact that we can supply windows that meet the new ‘green’ building regulations is also seen as a huge advantage.

“Since the start of the year, CR Smith has been investing in all areas of its business and this is now paying off. We are seeing a steady growth in our business and we are in a position to expand and take on new staff.

“A pilot operation for Factory Direct in Inverness started out with just a team of two and no contacts. Within a very short space of time we were supplying over 100 units. We now want to grow that team to six and will open operations in Aberdeen as we roll out the service across the north of Scotland.”

(GK)