Bowl maker secures backing for exports

LAWN bowls maker Thomas Taylor, which was founded in Glasgow in 1796, has secured a £450,000 funding deal from Bank of Scotland to help it expand in Australia.

The company, which turns over about £3.4m a year, has taken back its Australian distribution rights, hired its first overseas staff and will open a base “Down Under”.

Managing director Grant Heron, pictured above with Bank of Scotland relationship director Amanda Harold, said: “Our business has grown into an internationally-renowned firm. We’re still based in Glasgow and work in partnership with Strathclyde University to develop innovative products designed and produced in our city then sold around the world.

“The support we’ve received from Bank of Scotland has helped our international strategy. We’ve tapped into its currency expertise and seek advice to make sure our expansion is a long-term success.”

The firm already exports to nearly 20 countries including Canada, Hong Kong and Israel and the funding will fuel further expansion.