TWO factory workers share a joke as they put the finishing touches to some of Scotland's most famous confections.

And Italian photographer Renato Ventoso captured staff on the production line of the world-famous Tunnock's factory for a new Glasgow exhibition.

There is around a two-year waiting list for a tour, but owner Boyd Tunnock, CBE, gave Renato exclusive access to his factory in Tannochside, Uddingston, where between 10 and 12million sweet treats are made each week.

Renato, 49, said he wanted to pay tribute to the 80-year-old factory owner for his contribution to Scotland's economy with his family's famous caramel wafers, teacakes and coconut-covered snowballs.

The images will go on show from March 2 at Glasgow Art Club in the city's Bath Street.

Renato said: "All the big factories now are in the hands of multinationals and seem to have little respect for their workers.

"Tunnock's is the last big factory with a Scottish owner.

"Boyd seems to really care about people and the area and Scotland."

Renato, who is from Abruzzo in central Italy, came up with the idea for the exhibition during a visit to the factory. He was impressed by the friendly atmosphere and dedication of the owner, known as the Willy Wonka of Tannochside, who has vowed he won't retire before he is 100 and celebrated his 80th birthday recently by inviting his workers to a slap-up meal.

An Italian friend of Renato's, Gloria Lattanzi, was also involved in the shoot.

Said Renato: "The atmosphere was totally different from the usual one encountered in other similar places.

"The interior was really cosy and there were objects such as toys, cakes, photos and even Mr Tunnock's father's old driving licence were displayed on the wall, giving me a comfortable and homely feeling.

"A few minutes was enough to understand why this was such a peaceful place, not like the typical factories.

"The idea was to describe this unique piece of Scottish history without drawing attention to the product, but rather to focus on the way in which the factory and its staff operate.

"The photos shown in this exhibition are a tribute to all the Scottish workers whose everyday efforts help Scotland to be a better place."

Boyd joined the family business at the age of 15.

Although there were brief stints as a rally driver – racing against the likes of Formula One ace Jackie Stewart – Boyd has been devoted to the family empire all his career, building a successful business that employs around 600 people, including generations from the same family.

The company exports world-wide, including Saudi Arabia, where caramel wafers are popular.

Mr Tunnock said: "Renato just walked off the street and asked if he could take some pictures.

"He then showed me some and l liked them.

"My staff are a cheery bunch. It's about fun and laughter and enjoying your work."

Renato's previous exhibitions have included a collection of photographs of Scottish celebrities including actress Blythe Duff to raise funds for British Heart Foundation.

The exhibition runs until March 7.

caroline.wilson@eveningtimes.co.uk