New jobs have already been created at a Moray call centre which was threatened with closure at the beginning of the year.
A £1million deal was struck in January to allow Glasgow firm Kura to take over the running of the building at the Forres Enterprise Park.
It was feared more than 100 people could be made redundant after former operator Capita lost a huge contract with an energy firm.
But just weeks after taking over the site Kura has already put plans in motion to expand the workforce.
Yesterday the firm’s chief executive Brian Bannatyne met Moray MSP Richard Lochhead to update them on their expansions.
More than 100 new posts are expected to be created at the call centre in the coming months.
Mr Lochhead said: “It’s always an anxious time for employees and their families when companies lose contracts and another company takes over.
“However, the outcome looks positive for Forres and the retention of these jobs is hugely important to the local community and Moray’s economy.
“I’m told there are already more jobs in the call centre than there were at the end of the previous contract under the previous ownership.
“I’m pleased that the company recognises that the experienced and skilled workforce at Forres is a key asset to their company and it’s a real vote of confidence in that workforce that the company is actively seeking opportunities to expand over the next year.”
After signing the deal the Glasgow company praised the workforce in Forres for having the skills to attract more clients.
Kura has already begun working with the power company that Capita lost the contract with.
Mr Bannatyne added: “This new opening supports the vision we have for the business which is to be unrivalled across all organisations in developing people.
“We’re out to build a very different business in our industry that is focused on its people and their development.”
