£1.5m SOSE investment supports major manufacturing project at Arla Lockerbie
Our £1.5 million funding package is supporting the delivery of a major manufacturing project at Arla Foods' Lockerbie Creamery, helping accelerate the installation of new process heat pump technology at the site.
The investment was highlighted during a visit in August 2026 by the Minister for Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education, Ben Macpherson.
The project includes the installation of process heat pumps capable of supplying six megawatts of heat for manufacturing processes.
It is expected to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 15,000 tonnes of CO₂e each year.
Our investment also supports a site that plays an important role in the local economy and provides apprenticeship opportunities in areas including engineering and dairy technology.
Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education Minister Ben Macpherson said:
"The work at Arla, Lockerbie shows innovation, technology and skills working together in practice.
"Private investment is modernising manufacturing, public support is accelerating the utilisation of new technology, and our apprenticeship model is building the skills pipeline advanced manufacturing needs, in partnership with local colleges and employers.
"This latest investment from SOSE and Arla in the Lockerbie site demonstrates how investment in modern manufacturing technology can support jobs, skills and future opportunities in the community.
"This initiative is a great example of enhancing productivity and helping future-proof employment in the South of Scotland."
Richard Collins, Senior Site Director at Arla Lockerbie, added:
"We were delighted to welcome the Minister and representatives from SOSE to Lockerbie and showcase the progress being made through this important investment.
"Their support has helped accelerate a significant manufacturing project at the site, including the installation of process heat pump technology, while also supporting skills development through our apprenticeship programme."
Russel Griggs, Chair of SOSE, added:
"Arla Foods is using innovation, technology and education to help transform a major manufacturing site in the heartland of Scotland's dairy sector.
"While private investment is modernising the Lockerbie site, SOSE support is helping accelerate the installation of process heat pump technology.
"In addition, Arla's apprenticeship model is helping build the future skills needed.
"Innovation is taking place across the South of Scotland and Arla is another excellent example of this."