Spark Energy sees turnover rise sharply

Spark chief executive Chris Gauld said the firm had faced "numerous challenges" in order to succeed

A Borders-based energy firm has announced that its turnover more than doubled last year to £40.7m.

Spark Energy also made its first profit in 2013 - some £337,469 - compared with a loss of £3.26m the year before.

It attributed the growth of the business to "substantial investment" in its customer services and marketing.

Spark chief executive Chris Gauld said the firm had faced "numerous challenges" in order to succeed in a highly competitive market.

"Through the hard work of our employees and substantial investment into the company we are now more able to compete with our larger peers," he said.

"While there are still a number of obstacles to overcome to make our business fair and competitive, we are now seeing an air of change in the energy industry.

"It is a very exciting time for us as a company and we are now in the perfect position to ensure we continue to grow while providing our customers with the very best service at competitive rates."

Spark Energy was launched in 2008 and now employs more than 200 people in Selkirk, making it one of the largest employers in the Scottish Borders.