MUSSELBURGH-BASED Eskmills is experiencing a soaring increase in demand, signing more than 20 new deals as businesses ramp up for a return to the office.

Described as East Lothian’s largest office campus, the 150-year-old former fishing net factory is home to 50 companies that employ more than 500 people.

It has announced that it has appointed Hugh Rutherford, a former director of Savills, well-known in Scottish property and business circles, as its asset manager.

He is joined by Nicole Pyper in the newly created hybrid role of marketing and building manager.

She previously worked with Early Days Nurseries as head of marketing and communications for the group.

Oliver Stephen, director of Eskmills, said: “We have experienced an increase in demand from businesses.

"The office campus is very much alive with 22 new deals completed in 18 months. We have created an ecosystem at Eskmills to help teams of smart people succeed in business by providing the right working environment.

“Hugh and Nicole will be responsible for developing and driving that strategy and supporting continued success in our business in Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian and the Borders.

“There are many success stories in the Eskmills community, including Allegro Microsystems, the Nasdaq-listed chip manufacturer; IDI, the online education platform; as well as many other businesses that have grown at the campus over the last 20 years.”

Mr Rutherford added: “Growth in demand for work/life-balanced office solutions continues here as employers seek the benefits of a merged workplace and the attractive working environment that is unique in the East Lothian and south-eastern Edinburgh areas.”