Scottish Enterprise funds boost business with new efficiency-boosting software

UKSE, the Tata Steel subsidiary set up to assist growing companies in traditional steel areas, has backed the Lanarkshire business with a five-figure investment.

The funding from UKSE, along with grant support from Scottish Enterprise, has allowed Alba to purchase an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system which will provide a faster and more efficient service for clients and also free up additional internal resources, giving more time to Alba’s senior management team to concentrate on business development.

The new software replaces Alba’s previous manual system, managing payroll and producing quotes, through to job scheduling and invoicing. The ERP system eliminates multiple points of data entry, improves efficiency across the company, and provides a comprehensive management overview in near real time.

The funding has also enabled Alba to purchase 25 tablets for mobile engineers to access the new system on-the-go, cutting down on paper usage.

Established in 2003, Alba Facilities Services Ltd offers a range of maintenance services to the commercial and industrial sector throughout Scotland, northern England and the Midlands. Clients include the Scottish Ambulance Service, The Restaurant Group who manage restaurant brands such as Frankie & Benny’s and Chiquito and The Old Course Hotel in St Andrews. Alba currently employ 54 staff members, and aim to increase staff numbers to 80 by 2020.

Ian McCall, managing director at Alba Facilities Services Ltd, said: “The upgrade to our management system has modernised the service we provide for our clients, creating a smoother flow from our first point of contact, through to on-the-job feedback and ultimately invoicing upon project completion.

“UKSE offers a friendly business relationship, they have spent time getting to know our business and provide considered advice and support. They have been fundamental to our growth and we look forward to our continuing relationship.”

Scott Webb, regional executive at UKSE, said: “Alba is a long standing client, who always come back to UKSE when looking to raise funds for specific projects. The business has demonstrated growth since start-up and we’re proud to have been a part of their development.

“This new loan has given Alba the additional resources to allow them to focus on their business plans and recruitment goals.”