Artmachine, a prominent Shetland-based design and signage specialist, has successfully relocated to a significantly larger and more environmentally friendly facility in Lerwick.

The move, supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), marks a major milestone for the company, which has been operating since 1992.

The business has moved from its previous rented workshops into a 500m² unit at the Lower Blackhill Industrial Estate. The new site is three times the size of its former main workshop and features a dedicated design studio, offices, a laser room, and a CNC workshop. The expansion has already resulted in the creation of one full-time position, increasing the total staff count to seven, with further roles and apprenticeships expected later this year.

Sustainability was a core focus of the relocation. Supported by a £42,425 grant from HIE, Artmachine implemented extensive energy efficiency measures, including high-grade insulation and the use of sustainable materials. The facility also benefits from underfloor district heating and LED lighting. While the total footprint of the business has grown, the energy usage per square metre has actually decreased by 56 per cent.

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Katrina Wiseman, HIE area manager for Orkney and Shetland, said: "We are very pleased to support Artmachine's move to larger, more energy-efficient premises. This investment helps reduce environmental impact and creates space for growth, innovation, and new job opportunities in Shetland's creative sector.

"With Shetland's thriving economy continuing to create opportunities, businesses like Artmachine are embracing sustainability and expansion. We encourage other ambitious businesses in Shetland to get in touch and explore how we can help them achieve their goals."

Jonny Polson, who took over the firm in 2012, highlighted the benefits of the new environment: "Our new premises is almost three times the size of our previous space and features underfloor district heating, improved insulation and LED lighting, creating far better working conditions for our staff.

"While overall electricity use has risen by around 31 percent, usage per square metre has dropped by 56 percent, showing a significant improvement in energy efficiency. We're also exploring solar PV to cut carbon further. This project has enabled us to create a new full-time role, and we're looking into apprenticeship opportunities later this year. With technology evolving rapidly, the next decade could take the industry in exciting new directions."

The company, which began as a vinyl graphics studio, now utilises advanced technology including CNC machining, large-format printing, and CO₂ laser systems to serve clients across both Shetland and Orkney.