An international science and engineering company is opening up its second Inverclyde base, creating at least 20 new jobs.

Peak Scientific has signed a long-term lease with Riverside Inverclyde Property Holdings for a second unit at Kelburn Business Park in Port Glasgow.

The company set up a research and development office at the business park two years ago and is now establishing a manufacturing hub in a neighbouring 15,500-square-foot block.

Peak specialises in laboratory production of gas and has identified an opportunity during the current coronavirus pandemic to support the healthcare and food and drink sectors worldwide with portable oxygen generators which have been developed in Port Glasgow.

Jonathan Golby, Peak’s Chief Executive, said:

“Not only does this new site in Kelburn represent our second in Inverclyde, complementing our three sites in Renfrewshire, it also represents another success story for Peak.

“We needed a new home to begin manufacturing our latest innovation, born from our original Inverclyde site, the i-Flow O2 oxygen generator solution. Furthermore, we needed a larger manufacturing facility to meet the expanding, global demand for our coveted i-Flow nitrogen systems for scientific and industrial markets.

“We are really excited about this expansion of our facilities and are delighted to be creating a number of new manufacturing and engineering positions, particularly during this time.”

Peak, which is based in Inchinnan, moved into a smaller unit at Riverside Inverclyde’s Kelburn development in January 2018.

The company – classified as providing an essential service during the current Covid-19 pandemic – is in the process of fitting out its new premises with a view to starting operations there in a couple of weeks with support being provided by Gourock-based, Rebecchi Architectural Services.

Inverclyde Chamber President, Gavin McDonagh, also Chair of Riverside Inverclyde Property Holdings, said:

“This is another accolade for the Riverside Inverclyde Property Holdings team and portfolio but also for the Inverclyde economy as a whole.

“Peak’s positive experience at Kelburn over the last two years has encouraged them to increase their footprint and workforce within Inverclyde.

“Times are currently undoubtedly tough for so many organisations and individuals, so it is heartening to see some companies are still exploring opportunities even during challenging times showing that Inverclyde is open for business whilst remaining within the guidelines.”

Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s depute Leader and a Riverside Inverclyde Property Holdings board member, said:

“There is no getting away from the fact that many businesses and individuals have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

“But it’s reassuring that some organisations are able to expand during these difficult times and we’re delighted that Peak has chosen to do that here in Port Glasgow.

“I wish them continued success with their operations at Kelburn.”