One of the UK’s leading independent sawmills is set to increase production at its Northumberland headquarters after investing £2.3m in new machinery to upgrade its sawmill production line.
A & J Scott produces sawn timber for outdoor and garden objects, fencing, DIY products, and pallets and packaging.
The senior management team recognised that to continue to grow at a consistent rate it needed a range of new, state-of-the-art sawmill machinery.
The company’s investment in a range of high tech laser scanners is expected to boost the business’ capacity over the next 12 months, increasing log yield by 10 per cent and helping the business achieve a turnover of more than £25m in the next two years, an increase of four per cent.
Robert Scott, managing director at A & J Scott, said: “Over the past sixty years we have built a reputation as one if the leading independent providers of timber in the UK.
“Investing in the new machinery will enable us to continue to thrive within the sector, speeding up production, increasing capacity and yield to ensure that our clients are receiving the highest standard of service possible.”
The company bought the new machinery with support of a £1.5m asset finance facility from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.
Mr Scott added: “We are also switching our day-to-day banking facilities to Lloyds Bank and have been consistently impressed with the level of support and guidance provided.
“Andy Hopper, our relationship manager from Lloyds Bank, and the rest of his relationship team worked closely with us to understand our business plans and objectives and, as a result, they were able to provide a funding package that was tailored to our specific needs.”
Rory Whaling, business development director for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Over the past few years the management team at A & J Scott has invested in the firm to meet increased demand.
“We recognised that providing a funding package for the new machinery would allow the firm to continue with its expansion plans, boosting turnover and creating jobs for people in the local area.”
Ian Banks, regional manager for Lloyds Bank Asset Finance, said: “When speaking to the management team we were impressed with their thorough business plan and dedication to providing the best level of service to its clients.
“Asset-based finance facilities are ideal for companies like A & J Scott, which are expanding quickly, as it allows them to fund their growth without affecting day-to-day cashflow.”
