MORE than 80 per cent of firms in Scotland's IT and digital technologies industry have signalled their expectation that sales will grow in the next year, with three quarters planning to take on staff, writes Scott Wright.

But there remain fears a skills shortage will stop the sector reaching its potential.

The latest annual members' survey from trade body ScotlandIS suggests that while companies are confident about the future, they remained concerned over their ability to recruit quality staff.

Polly Purvis, executive director of ScotlandIS, said: "Once again our findings show that the IT and digital technologies industry is booming in Scotland.

"Our members are overwhelmingly positive about the coming year and they have ambitious plans for growth, but at the same time they are struggling to fill vacancies. We cannot afford to be complacent if we are to ensure the future success of this important industry."