AN EAST Kilbride laundry and dry cleaning firm has set up a specialist cleaning service for UGG boots, the Australian sheepskin boot brand, after securing finance from a subsidiary of Tata Steel.

The Herald reports that Indian steel manufacturer has invested in Cathkin Clean through UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE), which was originally set up in 1975 by the then British Steel Corporation to help growing companies in traditional steel producing areas.

Glasgow Times:

It is UKSE’s second investment in the family firm, which was founded in Rutherglen in 1894 and employs around 30 staff. In 2009, the Glasgow-based dry cleaning business, William Munro Cleaners, was rescued from administration by Cathkin Clean.

“As William Munro Cleaners is celebrating its 150th anniversary, we wanted to mark the occasion by introducing a fresh, new service,” said Cathkin Clean managing director Gavin Smith. “UKSE’s support has enabled us to embellish our offering and improve our processes throughout the company.”

The new UGG boot restoration service will allow wearers from across the UK to mail in their boots by freepost to be cleaned, fluffed and returned by post.

UKSE said it had now invested a five-figure sum in Cathkin Clean, having previously helped fund the company’s move to new premises in 2007.

“As a Scottish company with such an established history, it has been a pleasure to witness the continuing drive and vision of Cathkin Clean since our first involvement with the team in 2007,” said UKSE regional executive Scott Webb.

“Nine years later, the company continues to demonstrate an innovative approach to business development and we are proud to play a role in their ongoing success.”

Last year, UKSE celebrated 40 years of supporting economic regeneration and the development of areas in the UK which have been affected by changes in the steel industry.