Parliamentary Under Secretary of State Kirsty McNeill Visits Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, Part of Royal British Veterans Enterprise
Parliamentary Visit to SBMC Bishopton Facility
Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (SBMC) welcomed the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland, Kirsty McNeill, to its Bishopton facility on 6 November, where she met with veterans and staff to learn more about the organisation’s mission and impact.
SBMC is part of Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE), a national charity dedicated to creating jobs, providing homes, and building communities for veterans and people with disabilities. While SBMC is proudly based in Scotland, RBVE also operates manufacturing facilities in Kent and Surrey, delivering inclusive employment across the UK.
Veteran-Led Manufacturing and Social Impact
SBMC specialises in the production of high-quality signage for roads, railways, and commercial clients across the UK. Its team of veterans are trained in every stage of the manufacturing process, from design to dispatch.
Robert Lappin, Assistant Director of SBMC and a military veteran himself, said:
“We were pleased to welcome the Parliamentary Under Secretary to our Bishopton factory. The visit offered a valuable opportunity to highlight our work and the meaningful social impact we deliver in Scotland. As we approach Remembrance, appreciation of our work, led by veterans, is especially poignant.”
Since launching in 2018, SBMC has empowered dozens of veterans through life-changing, supportive employment. Many of its team members have been overlooked by mainstream employers but are now driving a market-leading social enterprise. Seven years on, SBMC’s mission remains focused on creating inclusive opportunities and driving positive societal change.
Veteran Stories: Anton’s Journey
Among those the Minister met was Anton, an Army veteran who joined SBMC through its traineeship programme. After overcoming significant challenges with his mental health, Anton has become a valued member of the team as a Manufacturing Operative. Reflecting on his experience, Anton said:
“An opportunity came up to work at Scotland’s Bravest with RBVE, and I grabbed it with both hands. It’s been really good here. I feel part of the team; it’s given me routine, structure, and the chance to be around people from similar backgrounds with different stories. We work hard in this place, and while it’s a workplace, it feels like a family too. I see the benefits it brings to others as well.”
SBMC’s continued growth is supported by a loyal and values-driven customer base that recognises the quality of its products and the importance of its social mission.
Showcasing Social Enterprise Achievements
The visit provided an opportunity to showcase SBMC’s achievements to date and to encourage wider recognition of the role social enterprises can play in delivering inclusive employment and public value across the UK.
UK Government Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill said:
“Ahead of Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, it was a privilege to visit Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company to meet veterans working there and hear about their successful military to civilian career transitions at this King’s Award-winning social enterprise. It is clear that veterans truly enrich our economy and our communities, and our support is vital when they leave service.”