A leader in environmentally friendly disinfection technologies, Scotmas is a second generation family owned water treatment and disinfection group based in Kelso in the Scottish Borders. Its core technology relates to the application of chlorine dioxide (ClO₂) as a method to control bacteria and other pathogens present in water and food contact surfaces across a variety of industries. The group’s systems currently treat over two billion litres of water per day, in markets as far afield as New Zealand, Dubai and Chile.
Founded in 1998, Scotmas has gone on to develop a unique integrated approach to water disinfection which combines equipment, chemistry and technical services. Its suite of ClO₂ dosing products cater for all sizes of water network and integrate with the group’s data driven dosing optimisation and control software and remote analysis tools. Since the roll out of its full service offering, Scotmas has secured large project wins and strategic partnership opportunities in key UK and international markets.
The funding from the Investment Fund for Scotland and Scottish Enterprise will accelerate Scotmas’ growth, initially focusing on establishing in-country sales, manufacturing, and servicing capabilities in the Middle East and South America. This will enable the business to meet the rising demand for expert water treatment solutions in these regions.
The group will also use the investment to increase manufacturing capacity at its Kelso plant, fund continuous product development and to build out its existing UK commercial, service and technical teams to meet customer needs. The funding is expected to create a further 40 high quality jobs over the course of the next three years.
"We are delighted to have secured this significant investment led by Maven, which highlights the strength of our technology and reinforces our vision for the future of water disinfection. This funding represents a tremendous opportunity to scale our operations, drive innovation through research and development, and deliver sustainable, cost-effective water treatment solutions to a growing global market.
"As a company deeply rooted in the Scottish Borders, we take great pride in contributing to the local economy by creating high quality jobs, apprenticeships, and career development opportunities. This investment is not just about the growth of Scotmas; it's also about fostering economic development in our community and tackling pressing global challenges like water stress and climate change. With Maven's support, we are poised to expand our reach both locally and internationally, delivering world class solutions that make a meaningful impact on peoples’ lives and the environment.”
Alistair Cameron, CEO of Scotmas Group
“Scotmas has grown to be the best-in-class provider of ClO₂ technology through years of R&D and academic partnerships. Its technology has solved safety and by-product concerns that have historically hampered the adoption of ClO₂ as a disinfectant of drinking and industrial water. There is a clear and increasing need for Scotmas’ services due to growing global water demands and water quality regulations becoming more stringent. We’re delighted to back Alistair and the team at this point in the group’s growth journey as they embark on ambitious expansion plans to serve international markets.”
Alan Robertson, Partner at Maven
“Scotmas is a shining example of an ambitious Scottish business driving innovation on an international scale with its environmentally friendly water treatment technology. The team’s dedication to sustainability and addressing critical global challenges aligns seamlessly with the IFS mission to back businesses that deliver local economic growth and create jobs in the communities they serve. We are thrilled to support Scotmas as it continues to expand and solidify its position as a leader in water disinfection technology.”
Sarah Newbould, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank
“This investment highlights our dedication to supporting the growth of ambitious businesses in Scotland. By helping companies such as Scotmas to scale, we aim to create high quality, high value jobs and empower them to compete and lead in global markets.”
Scottish Enterprise Director of Entrepreneurship and Investment Kerry Sharp
This marks the tenth investment made by IFS Maven Equity Finance, showcasing Maven’s strong track record of identifying and nurturing high potential businesses, and the opportunity in Scotland to drive innovation and growth. The Fund has also backed optimisation software, Corporate Modelling Services, 3D printed micro-tumour specialist, Carcinotech, premium Indian ready meals business, Praveen Kumar and Glasgow University spinout, Nami Surgical.
IFS - Maven Equity Finance can provide investment of up to £5 million to support ambitious earlier and later stage businesses across Scotland. If your business, or the business you advise, is looking for an equity investment as a solution to fund future growth, get in touch here.