Clydesdale deal takes the biscuit

BORDERS Biscuits is to expand the size of its production base in Lanark by a third after securing a finance deal from Clydesdale Bank.

Bank deal will allow Borders Biscuits to increase production at its Lanark headquarters. Picture: Contributed

The company remained tight-lipped last night over how much cash it was borrowing after switching to the bank, but described the figure as “substantial”.

A 1,620sq m warehouse will now be built at the firm’s 4,750sq m site, which already produces some 300,000 packets of biscuits each week.

Financial director Caryl Hamilton said: “The partnership we have embarked on with Clydesdale Bank will help to transform the business.

“After experiencing strong growth over the past few years, adding space to our Lanarkshire facility is crucial. The extra space also gives us the option to expand in the future, without having to worry about where we put any new kit.”

Borders Biscuits was founded in 1984 with just four flavours of biscuit and has grown to produce more than 30 varieties for all four large supermarket chains, as well as caterers and wholesalers. The firm employs 150 staff and is on course to turn over £12 million this year.

Last month the firm launched its first UK-wide television advertising campaign featuring actress Jane Horrocks.

Stuart McCallum, head of food and drink for Clydesdale Bank in Scotland, said: “Borders Biscuits has grown to become one of Scotland’s best-known premium food brands, with fans all over the world. We welcome the opportunity to help the firm to develop and expand.”