A Moray company that makes coats for drying soggy mutts has seen sales rocket from 300 a year to more than 300 a month in the last two years, with uptake particularly strong in Alaska and Northern Europe.
The Auchindachy-based firm, Dogrobes, which was set up in 2004, also sells its coats in the UK, the U.S. and New Zealand.
Margaret Reynolds, who bought the company from a neighbour two years ago, said Business Gateway Moray has been instrumental in the firm’s success.
The organisation provides specialist advice for companies, and arranges business skills workshops and networking events.
Ms Reynolds said: “When I decided to buy the business … I thought it would keep me busy since my daughter was moving away to go to university and it would mean a bit of extra money coming in.
“But then I went on a business growth course run by Business Gateway and that changed the way I looked at it. As I sat there, I realised that I could implement the key elements of the course into Dogrobes and that with the right planning and hard work I could grow the business.
“I began by completely rebranding and creating a new business website which was modern and fresh. Then I got out and about, identifying specific exhibitions and fairs that I felt would be of greatest benefit to us.
“Now, in just two years, we are selling thousands of robes a year and shipping to customers all over the world.”
Craig Robertson, a manager at Business Gateway, said: “Expanding a business both locally and overseas in two years is no mean feat but Margaret has done a fantastic job in growing Dogrobes and successfully turning it into an international venture. She has shown that with the right advice, enthusiasm and a great product, you can build a fruitful business.”