KP Technology Wins Highland and Islands' Business Award

16th September 2006

Wick-based KP Technology has been recognised at the Highland and Islands' leading business awards ceremony for developing and exporting new measurement systems.

KP Technology collected the Highlands and Islands Enterprise Award for Excellence in Research and Development at the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI) Highlands and Islands Dinner and Awards ceremony which took place on Friday at the Highland Conference Centre in Nairn.

The business was started by Prof Iain Baikie in the attic of the family home in 2000. It has grown steadily over the years and has now relocated to business premises and employs an additional seven staff, three of whom are local graduates returning to Caithness. On-going research into innovative uses for its Kelvin Probe measurement system has identified various systems to extend the product line, including corrosion in iron and steel, studies of semiconductors and electronic devices, and biomaterials.

Prof Iain Baikie of KP Technology said: "We are absolutely delighted to accept the HIE business award for Excellence in Research and Development. Pivotal to our success has been the ability to attract and retain promising young graduates and give them training in leading-edge technologies. Entering a high-tech market is never easy and our growth, typified by a trebling of our 'Kelvin Probe' export orders over 24 months, has been achieved by young professionals prepared to set high standards and problem-solve on their own initiative. In my view we could never have accomplished this without the nurturing and training input of HIE, who have supported KP Technology from the outset. I heartily recommend to those with the gem of an idea to consider starting a company and become master of their own destiny. My personal goal is to achieve a world-wide awareness of, in the words of a Chinese customer, "our excellent technology and customer service". Over 100 years ago Willie Thomson, later Lord Kelvin, made Scotland the epicentre of Science and Technology, I would like to re-establish that 'Made in Scotland' is synonymous with excellence."

Jackie Wright, director of business growth and research with Highlands and Islands Enterprise, said: "Research and development is playing a critical role in aiding the growth of individual businesses and the wider economy of Scotland. The commitment of businesses like KP Technology, who are practising innovation, winning international orders and creating high quality, skilled employment, deserves recognition as a clear example of the benefits of investing in research and development. We are delighted to have been able to sponsor this important award and I congratulate KP Technology on achieving this success."

SCDI Chairman Shonaig Macpherson said: "KP Technology is an exciting young company which is constantly developing its products and thereby expanding its potential customer base. By the end of 2006, it is aiming to complete and ship 20 systems per year to customers world-wide. "The company's growth and its success in attracting talented graduates back to live and work in Caithness is good news for the local economy and community."

For more information about KP Technology Ltd please visit www.kelvinprobe.com