Brian Whittle MSP paid a visit to Kays Scotland recently to hear how the Mauchline business has become the world’s best manufacturer of curling stones.
From their Ayrshire base, Kays manufacture and export curling stones made using granite harvested from Ailsa Craig. Ailsa Craig granite is recognised around the world for having unique qualities which make it the ideal material for curling stones and have led to Kays stones becoming the only curling stones approved for use in competition by The World Curling Federation.
During his visit, the South Scotland MSP met with Managing Director Donald Macrae and was given a tour of the firm’s production line by Director Mark Callan. Using Ailsa Craig Common Green Granite for the body of the stone, with Ailsa Craig Blue Hone Granite for the part of the stone which comes into contact for the ice, Kays have manufactured all the curling stones used at the last 5 Winter Olympic Games. The company also refurbish old curling stones and use waste material that’s too small to make a curling stone to make a range of Ailsa Craig granite gifts; from granite cufflinks to miniature curling stones.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“One of the best things about being an MSP is being able to visit fantastic local businesses with a globally admired product, like Kays Scotland. The craftsmanship and skill that’s put into manufacturing each stone is astonishing. I wonder how many people across Scotland have watched the Winter Olympics on TV and not realised that every single curling stone being used comes from Ailsa Craig via Mauchline? Ayrshire is full of great businesses with talented people producing world class products that deserve to be celebrated.”
Comment from Kays Scotland:
“It was a pleasure to have Brian visit the factory and to give us the opportunity of showing him what we do. His enthusiasm and his willingness to learn and understand our processes was very refreshing. He is welcome back anytime.”