LANARKSHIRE-based Centurion Signs is eyeing expansion after the business was acquired by a management buyout team with backing from Clydesdale Bank, writes Mark Williamson.

The buyout was led by commercial director Gordon Duff ,who noted Centurion plans to invest in digital technologies amid rapid change in the market and in facilities that will allow the firm to compete for bigger jobs. “I am particularly excited about expanding our engineering and fabrication capabilities, which allow us to compete for larger, more complex work whilst also improving our turnaround times and reducing costs,” said Mr Duff.

Centurion expects to create jobs in areas ranging from design to social media to support the growth push. The business employs 25 people in its head office in East Kilbride, with installation teams working throughout the UK.

Founded in 1971, Centurion makes signs used in sectors ranging from housebuilding to education. Clients include City of Glasgow College.

Clydesdale Bank arranged a six figure funding package in support of the deal. It included equity funding provided by Ayrshire businessmen Allan Brese and Graham Ross.

The business was acquired from Glen Ballantyne, who took control at Centurion in 2010 after running firms in sectors ranging from waste management to art supplies.