Highland Slaters  was established by James MacRae Sr in 1978 and today specialises in all aspects of traditional and modern roofing. Here, to mark the 41st anniversary of this Highland success story, we speak to James MacRae Jr, the founder’s son, as he looks back to when he first began working with his Dad as an apprentice.

James, who now runs Highland Slaters, also celebrates the successes of the family-run firm and his hopes for the future of the business. “I remember being with my father as a young boy on many jobs, initially he worked away just himself then his brother Richard joined the business. I left school in 1985 and immediately went to serve my apprenticeship with them,” James said.

After completing his apprenticeship, James left the family business to gain experience elsewhere. He said it was during these years he gained a wealth of knowledge about the industry.

Besides building on the success of Highland Slaters for over 40 years, James is also director of Highland Slate Supplies, which is a sister company and was established seven years ago. Highland Slate Supplies is involved in the demolition of buildings and is skilled in the removal of slates which are carefully stripped, selected and palletised before being taken to the company’s yard.