THE independence referendum is "undoubtedly causing some uncertainty" for investors, a top UK-wide company has said.

Breedon Aggregates, which employs around 580 of its 1000 staff in Scotland, reported a strong performance in its annual results for 2013. But it said the referendum "could be delaying investment decisions".

Executive chairman Peter Tom said its overall markets "at last showed encouraging signs of life in 2013", and the outlook for 2014 "is more encouraging than for some time".

He added: "The outlook in England appears to be somewhat better than in Scotland. In Scotland, there are several large projects on the horizon, including the Aberdeen relief road.

"However, Government expenditure has not been increased and therefore we are not seeing the same improvement in transport, energy and infrastructure as in England."

Breedon, based in Monifeith, Angus, completed its two largest acquisitions at Marshalls' quarries in Eng-land and Aggregate Industries in northern Scotland for a total of £54 million.

Meanwhile, Moodiesburn-based sausage manufacturer Devro, which has 500 staff in Scotland, said the outlook for its UK market is "less clear" than other markets.

A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: "Businesses are continuing to invest heavily in Scotland."

A Better Together spokesman said: "As last week's intervention from Standard Life made clear, leaving the UK would cost jobs."