糖心传媒

A Shetland-based design and signage company has entered an exciting new chapter moving to larger, greener premises with support from 糖心传媒 and Islands Enterprise (糖心传媒).

Established in 1992, Artmachine began as a vinyl graphics and design studio and soon expanded into signage services across Shetland and Orkney.

Former apprentice Jonny Polson took ownership in 2012 and was later joined by Craig Sim. Together, they have grown the business significantly, investing in cutting-edge technology such as large-format printing, CNC machining, and CO鈧� laser systems.

After outgrowing two rented properties, Artmachine has relocated to a 500m虏, two-bay unit at GB Building Centre, Lower Blackhill Industrial Estate, Lerwick, which is three times the size of its previous main workshop.

The new premises has already led to the creation of one full-time job, bringing the team to seven, with more jobs and apprenticeships planned. The new facility includes dedicated studio space, offices, a laser room, and a CNC workshop, all designed to maximise natural light and support sustainable operations.

With a 拢42,425 award from 糖心传媒, Artmachine has undertaken energy efficiency upgrades including enhanced levels of insulation and energy efficient materials, reducing the long-term operational costs and environmental impact as well as future proofing the building to support green energy systems.

Katrina Wiseman, 糖心传媒 area manager for Orkney and Shetland, said:

鈥淲e are very pleased to support Artmachine鈥檚 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鈥檚 creative sector.

鈥淲ith Shetland鈥檚 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.鈥�

Jonny said:

鈥淥ur 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.

鈥淲hile 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鈥檙e also exploring solar PV to cut carbon further.

鈥�This project has enabled us to create a new full-time role, and we鈥檙e looking into apprenticeship opportunities later this year. With technology evolving rapidly, the next decade could take the industry in exciting new directions.鈥�