Ortak getting back to its roots with plans to expand

Local jewellery manufacturer Ortak is this week in the process of relocating to its former home on the Hatston Industrial Estate, marking a homecoming for the business which was originally founded 50 years ago.

Established by local man Malcolm Gray, who originally took up silvercraft as a hobby, Ortak grew to become one of the UK’s leading jewellery manufacturers. However, the company later ran into into financial difficulties.

Unable to turn around its fortunes, the business went into administration in March of 2014. Dozens of jobs were lost as the company’s Kirkwall workshops at Hatston fell silent and its UK network of shops closed.

Later that year the Ortak brand – including the intellectual property rights and original designs and patterns of the jewellery moulds and drawings – was bought over by a group of investors who formed a new company, Ortak Ltd, backed by a £136,400 grant from development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

In the past week a notice has been posted on the company Facebook page saying: “Ortak is relocating back home to the old factory at Hatston in Kirkwall.”

The news prompted numerous messages of support with the company replying: “Thanks so much to you all for your lovely comments wishing us well with our exciting move.”

The re-launched company had previously been operating out of a former dental centre in Great Western Road in Kirkwall before the move, a building which was becoming very cramped for the needs of the business.

Ortak managing director, Michael Gardens, said this week that the company are leasing part of the former Ortak premises, including the workshops and shop from a local businessman who has recently purchased the building.

This would now allow the company, who employ 16 people, the opportunity to grow the business, in what is the 50th anniversary of the founding of the original company.
Further details in The Orcadian on Thursday.