A Dumfries manufacturer has moved from prototype to production planning this month after creating six local jobs and announcing plans to recruit further staff as it prepares to make what it describes as a "world‑first" construction panel made predominantly from recycled glass.
Local manufacturing and green skills
VASO Global, based in Dumfries, has begun scaling its operation to produce structural panels for the construction industry made from 94% recycled glass. The company said the new product is engineered as an alternative to traditional concrete block materials, blending a sustainability pitch with claims of robust performance.
The factory has already created six jobs for the new project and the company expects to expand its workforce by up to 70 roles over the next five years. Company representatives described the roles as offering specialist skills and career development opportunities as production ramps up.
- Current jobs created: 6
- Planned additional roles: up to 70 over five years
- Primary material: panels composed of 94% recycled glass
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| Jobs created so far | 6 |
| Planned jobs (5 years) | Up to 70 |
| Recycled glass content | 94% |
Industry crossover and local training links
VASO Global executives said the company has drawn on composite material experience from sectors such as aviation, motorsport and automotive to develop the new panel. The firm is working with local colleges and schools to create recruitment pathways, aiming to bring younger people into manufacturing roles in the growing green economy.
"The fact that it's actually launching here in south west Scotland is amazing. We are so proud that it started where we come from," said Nicola Black of VASO, emphasising the company’s local roots and training links.
Chief Executive Eddie Black described the material as deceptively familiar in appearance but different in composition. "This may look like a concrete breeze block, but this is actually made of 94% recycled glass, and it's pretty sturdy. And it's pretty heavy," he said. He added the firm believed composite materials should take a larger role in construction following their success in other high‑performance industries.
"It’s fantastic for Dumfries," said one of the new recruits, 29‑year‑old Broghan Johnston, who joined as a process operator. "Having opportunities like this to learn new skills in the green economy in a role with good prospects to develop your career is something you don’t hear a lot of around here."
Manufacturing and engineering manager Jim Patterson said the enthusiasm of new staff for the product and its potential was a motivating factor for the team as they develop the production line.
What it means for Dumfries
For Dumfries residents the announcement has two immediate implications. First, the creation of paid, local manufacturing posts adds to the town’s employment options at a time when green sector jobs are a policy focus across Scotland. Second, the public commitment to work with educational institutions may broaden local skills provision in composite manufacturing and related technical trades.
As the project progresses, attention will turn to the pace at which the planned roles are filled, the specific skills training offered, and the market reception of the panels in the construction industry. For now, the firm’s move to scale production from its Dumfries base represents a locally grounded example of circular‑economy manufacturing entering a traditional building materials market.
Residents seeking further information on opportunities or training links should monitor VASO Global and local college announcements as recruitment for the expanded operation continues.
