As North Lanarkshire based IT firm NVT secures a £2 million Commonwealth Games contract, the economic boost that the games is bringing to Scottish companies is clearer than ever.  To date, companies based in Scotland have won 312 of the 418 Games contracts awarded over the last three years, including almost 90% of the lucrative tier one contracts worth £276 million.

Meanwhile, iconic drinks makers AG Barr which produces Irn-Bru has been unveiled as the latest sponsor of the Games.  Many of the companies that have been awarded contracts, including NVT, have been able to expand their Modern Apprenticeship programmes as a result, bringing valuable opportunities to young people in Scotland.

Commenting, SNP MSP for Glasgow Shettleston, John Mason, whose constituency is where the games facilities are located, said:

“The SNP Government has been determined to ensure that the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2014 delivers a lasting economic legacy to businesses and communities in Scotland.

“With the vast majority of contracts and almost 90% of tier one contracts having been awarded to companies in Scotland, it is clear that this is happening.

“Jobs are being created and Modern Apprenticeship programmes are being expanded, as the Commonwealth Games brings opportunities to people in Scotland.

“That is great news for Glasgow, great news for Scotland but most importantly great news for the businesses and communities which are already benefitting from the Commonwealth Games in 2014.”