RBS funding boost for West Lothian PPE supplier looking to grow workforce

A West Lothian distributor of health and safety supplies is hopeful it can grow its workforce post-pandemic after securing coronavirus funding.

Chief executive Cynthia Guthrie.

Livingston-based Guthrie Group, which was founded in 1992, said it had secured £250,000 in funding from Royal Bank of Scotland to secure the long-term future of the business.

The loan has enabled the firm to maintain a steady cashflow and cope with an increased demand as it continues distributing essential supplies of PPE, hygiene and cleaning products to front-line workers in the NHS, care homes, local councils and the food manufacturing sector.

The family-run company, which also specialises in the procurement and distribution of workwear, and catering supplies and packaging, currently employs 20 staff and is hopeful that the funding will enable it to expand its workforce post-crisis.

Chief executive Cynthia Guthrie said: “Like many other businesses, whilst mindful of a second wave, we are beginning to look past coronavirus.

“As the global health crisis subsides, and with Brexit on the horizon, we are working hard to expand our footprint, not just across Scotland and the UK, but on an international scale.

“The funding and incredible support from Royal Bank of Scotland has allowed us to cope with increased demand and ensure continuity through the pandemic, and as we look ahead it will enable us to research and source new manufacturers as well as to increase the capability of our CloudStockIMS software.”

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