Many happy returns as Invergordon’s ERG celebrates 50 years of success

A family-owned window and conservatory specialist is celebrating 50 years of serving the Highlands in style by posting record sales and launching a special birthday competition.

ERG, which was originally founded as Easter Ross Glass by David Joy in 1974, has been designing and installing windows, doors and contemporary living spaces for customers across an area the size of Belgium, spanning from Fort William to Inverness and as far north as Wick.

The business is now led by David’s son Ian Joy and, under his leadership, has grown turnover to nearly £6m, employing more than 40 people at its showroom and factory in Invergordon.

As a thank you and to celebrate its 50th birthday, the firm is giving customers the opportunity to win a top-of-the-range Apeer composite door (up to the value of £3000) through its social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram.

“When my father started the business in 1974, he originally sold glass out of Fearn Aerodrome,” explained Ian Joy, Managing Director of ERG.

ERG Old Photo: (l-r) Ian with his father David Joy, founder of ERG

“He founded the company on the principles of excellent customer service and that is still at the heart of what we do, combined with the very best products and investment in new technology.”

He continued: “This has helped us grow over the last five decades and withstand various recessions and, in more recent years, the Covid-19 pandemic. Our staff and customers have been with us throughout and the birthday competition is our way of giving a little back.”

ERG has added an Architectural Technician to its team this year, to enhance its turnkey offering for customers wishing to add a conservatory or living space to their homes.

This service allows it to take a project from idea to completion and ensures challenges, such as planning permission and building warranty, are efficiently managed.

It’s the latest innovation from the business, which was recently named as a Premium Retailer by Conservatory Outlet, whose network it first joined five years ago.

Ian continued: “This was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made, and we have benefited hugely from the additional marketing support, digital activity and access to premium products such as its Extreme window and door collection – some of our biggest sellers.

“They feel like an extension to our business, and this has translated into strong growth, with sales increasing from £4m in 2019 to £6m at the end of this year.”

Greg Kane, Chief Executive of Conservatory Outlet, concluded: “Home improvement is such a competitive sector, so to have been operating for five decades is some achievement by ERG.

“Since joining our network, we have been hugely impressed with Ian and his team’s dedication to exceptional customer service and innovation in their markets – especially considering the huge geographic area they cover. The company is without doubt one of Invergordon’s true business stars.”

For further information, please visit www.ergscotland.co.uk or www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk