Printers SPD boost staff with £1.7m HSBC funding

Family-owned printing and design company SPD is looking to expand its workforce by up to 10 per cent after securing financial backing to move into new markets.

HSBC have come through with a financing package. Picture: PA

Glasgow-based SPD, which claims to be one of Scotland’s largest independent businesses in the sector, is gearing up to broaden its offering on the back of a £1.65 million financing package from HSBC. New design services will include office layout, concept development and brand marketing.

Managing director Scott Winter said the firm, founded in 1990, is also exploring a move into international markets. This will be backed up by investment in new digital printing technology to service both expansion and SPD’s traditional markets.

“To be successful in the printing industry in Scotland, you have to invest in technology,” Winter said.

“We are at the cutting edge and the only way to remain there is to bring in the latest equipment to deliver the best services. The support from HSBC enables us to do that while providing the headroom required to expand into new markets like design and marketing services.”

Colin More, area director for HSBC corporate banking in Scotland, said SPD is at an important phase in its development.

He said: “It is celebrating 25 years in business and has recently experienced significant growth. Our aim is to provide the financial tools and experience required to help the SPD management team realise its ambitions, whether through diversification or international trade.”

SPD employs 30 people, a figure that has grown by 20 per cent during the past five years. During that same period, revenues have increased by 35 per cent. Its clients include outdoor clothing retailer Trespass and distiller Whyte & Mackay.