WHILE Emtelle has hit the acquisition train in Germany its directors were at pains yesterday to underline the firm’s confidence in the Borders area where it is based.

For many people in Scotland the Borders may forever be associated with the images of derelict textile mills amid beautiful scenery.

The case of Emtelle, however, provides a reminder that it is also a place where some very modern success stories have been written.

Emtelle has become a leading player in the market to produce the cabling that helps bring the internet to consumers around the world without the company attracting much attention.

It sells in 50 countries.

The challenges posed by operating in a largely rural area plagued by issues such as weaknesses in communications and transport infrastructure have not held it back.

Finance director Tony Rodgers said yesterday that the firm has had no problem recruiting people with the kind of specialised knowledge required to keep it ahead of the game.

He noted the Borders is home to a dynamic biotech sector.

Highlighting the loyalty and motivation shown by employees in Scotland, Mr Rodgers dismissed suggestions Emtelle might shift activity overseas to counter threats that may result from Brexit.

The comments provided a much cheerier assessment of business life in southern Scotland than was implied by the Scottish Government’s recent decision to form an economic development agency focused on the Borders and Dumfries & Galloway.

This will consider factors such as the area’s ageing population and poor connectivity between towns.

One must hope it does not ignore the lessons that can be learned from the success of the likes of Emtelle.