Scotland’s leading centre for research on crops has emerged as a major contributor to the Scottish economy.
SCRI, based at Invergowrie near Dundee, generates an estimated
£160 million of business every year in the farming, food and retail sectors in Scotland and the rest of the UK. Some analysts put this figure as high as £227m.
Scientists at SCRI work with soft fruit, potatoes and cereals, and are funded by the Scottish Executive, the European Union and commercial enterprises. Economists found that original investment is multiplied 12-fold when the benefits of research, innovation and new products are reflected in the UK economy. The astonishing performance is highlighted in a socio-economic impact assessment using the UK Treasury’s Green Book rules.
The Scottish Executive’s cabinet secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, Richard Lochhead, said: "SCRI is a great success story for Scotland, providing vital scientific services for agriculture and bringing benefits for the Scottish economy through the farming, food and retail sectors both in Scotland, and beyond.
"The new Scottish government is committed to making Scotland a greener, smarter and wealthier country, and recognises the contribution that research can make."
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