Understanding, assurance, trust: long-standing support for innovative Micropack

Thousands of oil and gas industry workers rely on Micropack to ensure they can go about their business in hazardous environments safely, and with confidence.

The Portlethen-based company, a globally recognised specialist in fire and gas hazard detection technologies – primarily for the offshore sector, is a North-east success story.

The technology and consultancy services firm provides critical safety support, while also significantly reducing the prevalence of false alarms that can lead to eye-wateringly expensive shutdown costs.

Founded more than 30 years ago, Micropack is now part of Consilium Marine & Safety following an acquisition by the Swedish company in 2016.

Micropack is a pioneer in flame detection, with its visual flame detection technology a unique innovation and a growing range of traditional radian-based detectors.

Meston Reid & Co has supported the business for almost 20 years from setting up solid accountancy foundations to advising managing director Raymond Hynds and his management team when the company was acquired by Consilium.

Gary Boyd, commercial director at Micropack, says Meston Reid & Co has been a trusted partner for the business each and every step of the way. Such has been the strength of this relationship that Meston Reid & Co continues to support Micropack when the vast majority of divisions in the wider group are supported by one of the ‘Big 4’. Today Meston Reid provides audit and tax services.

Gary, who has held a number of senior financial positions in the energy sector and joined Micropack four years ago, said: “Meston Reid people are part of our story. They were involved in the early days and continue to support us. I’ve come into firms in the past and had to unscramble accountancy systems and processes that were not up to scratch. That was not the case when I arrived at Micropack. Meston Reid had set up a robust, professional accountancy solution.

“They understand our business – I’m not having to explain background or go over old ground. They know what we are looking for due to the relationship we have with them. Martin Cheyne [Tax Partner] and Dave Smith [Tax Manager] are available when we have queries and provide practical advice, in particular in the area of corporate tax, R&D tax credits and Patent Box.

“In addition, Mark Brown [Audit, Accounts and Business Assurance Partner] was extremely important in guiding Micropack through the acquisition. It was a highly satisfactory transaction for both sides. There is a great deal of trust between the firms.”

Looking to the future of Micropack, Gary added: “Our technology, software and mapping tools are best in class. We have an orderly queue forming to speak with us, which is a good place to be during the current global challenges. That’s down to the quality and value of our products and the expertise of our team.”

Meston Reid & Co will continue to be a trusted partner for Micropack as the company launches three new products and continues to expand its reach into other commercial markets.