Border Biscuits to expand production thanks to Clydesdale Bank

6 January 2016

Border Biscuits is aiming to take a bigger bite of the baked goods market in the UK with the support of a seven figure funding package from Clydesdale Bank.

The award-winning biscuit manufacturer is adding a new production line to its biscuit manufacturing facility in Lanark as part of plans to grow its share of the marketplace south of the Border. The deal was delivered by Sandra Gardiner, relationship manager at Clydesdale Bank’s Lanarkshire Business and Private Banking Centre.

Founded in 1984, with just four varieties, Border Biscuits now produces more than 24 types of biscuit and supplies all of the major supermarkets – Tesco, Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s. It also supplies wholesale and food service businesses as well as independent retailers across the UK.

The company’s bestselling variety is Dark Chocolate Ginger with more than 24 million such biscuits produced annually. Its Milk Chocolate Ginger range is increasingly popular and recently secured a Great Taste 2015 award. The award is one of the most prestigious of its kind with over 400 judges, including specially trained food writers, coming together to test products during 49 judging days.

Clydesdale Bank is a strong supporter of Scotland’s food and drink sector, with the Bank renewing its strategic partnership with industry organisation Scotland Food & Drink this year. It also enjoys a similar partnership with Scottish Bakers.

Border Biscuits, which generated a turnover over £14.5 million in its last financial year, has been a customer of Clydesdale Bank since 2013.

Mark Bruce, UK sales and marketing Director at Border Biscuits, said: “Our latest funding package from Clydesdale Bank will allow us to significantly expand our operations and grow UK and international sales.”

Simon Kerr, Head of Clydesdale Bank’s Lanarkshire Business and Private Banking Centre, said: “We’re extremely pleased to support Border Biscuits, one of the country’s most innovative and exciting food companies.

“Working closely with industry organisations has strengthened our knowledge of the sector and helps us to provide unparalleled support to our food and drink customers. We understand the opportunities and challenges faced by the industry and we are perfectly placed to help businesses in the food and drink sector to realise their growth ambitions.”