A local skincare manufacturer has seen production increase by 200% since moving to new premises in April.
Siabann, which means soap in Gaelic, is now hand-making all of its natural products, which includes soaps, lip balms, serums, and skin candles, at its base in Carsebridge Court.
Run by Fiona Ritchie and Sue Price, the company, which has been helped by Business Gateway Clackmannanshire, has also just launched its first men’s range – Beàrr Man.
Utilising the talents of local artist Peter Nelson to produce eye-catching packaging, the collection contains a soothing balm, shaving soap, body wash, and moisturiser, and is available to buy from www.siabann.com.
Fiona said: “Last Christmas we were aware of a gap in the market for a high quality yet affordable gift offering for men. Using the knowledge amassed over the past 11 years we’ve developed the 100% natural men’s range, which carries the Gaelic word ‘Beàrr’, meaning shave. We believe the products will solve many Christmas gift dilemmas and introduce more men to the joys of natural skincare products.”
Using sales and marketing advice from Business Gateway coupled with their own determination, the company has been able to add the likes of Inverness Airport and Crieff and Peebles Hydro to their growing list of stockists this year.
Having also placed third in the Business Gateway supported local HEAT Awards in January, the duo used their winnings to buy display furniture that now features in their new showroom, and is used at trade and retail shows.
Sue said: “Over the years we’ve had great support from Business Gateway, most recently advice on how best to prioritise our activities and reach potential stockists has been invaluable to us.”
Alison Davidson, Business Gateway, said: “Over the last year, we have helped Siabann re-brand, launch a new website, and most recently secure new stockists. Now, the new range will help it get a foothold in the growing male grooming market.”
The initial idea for the all-natural skincare business arose after Fiona couldn’t find a soap she was happy to use on her children’s skin so she decided to make her own.
As her children grew so too did the range and she started to sell her products, which are made using the essential oils and butters as well as thistle oil, a therapeutic and rejuvenating oil that helps to affirm the company’s Scottish roots, at local craft fairs.
She said: “I wasn’t happy putting products with chemicals and parabens on my children’s skin and everything has grown from there. Consolidating the range and re-branding last July has made our products even more attractive to buyers both here and abroad. Getting to this stage has taken a lot of hard work and advice from Business Gateway. Securing the Digital Voucher in 2015 really helped us create an outstanding web presence which is now playing a huge part in helping us attract sales.”
To see Siabann’s full range visit www.siabann.com and to find out how Business Gateway Clackmannanshire can help your business call 01259 726430 or visit www.bgateway.com/clackmannanshire.