Shortbread maker Dean’s of Huntly is set to ramp up its exports business after securing a £4.9m funding package.
The Aberdeenshire-based firm plans to use the funds to increase production capacity, develop new customer relationships and manage cash flow as it continues to grow its export operations.
The family-owned company, which was founded by Helen Dean in 1975, has reported growing demand for its shortbread, biscuits, and savoury cheese bites in markets including Australia, China, Japan, the US, and across Europe.
Dean’s stated its success has been built on Helen’s original shortbread recipe, first baked in her kitchen to raise funds for the local Huntly Pipe Band.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see products that started with my mother’s shortbread recipe being enjoyed by customers all over the world,” said managing director Bill Dean. “Exports are a hugely important part of our business and represent one of our biggest opportunities for future growth.”
Funding for this opportunity has come in the form of a £4.9m package from Bank of Scotland comprising trade finance solutions and an invoice finance facility.
Bank of Scotland relationship director Michael Thomson described Dean’s as a fantastic Aberdeenshire success story.
“We’re proud to support Dean’s as it expands internationally, helping the business seize new opportunities in overseas markets while continuing to invest in its operations and people here in Scotland. It’s that ambition, resilience and commitment to quality that have helped Dean’s build a brand that resonates far beyond its home market.”
In February this year, Dean’s expanded with the acquisition of fellow Aberdeenshire shortbread specialist Duncan’s of Deeside.
“This year has been particularly special for us, celebrating 50 years of Dean’s and acquiring Duncan’s of Deeside,” said Bill. “These are both important milestones that strengthen our position in the market while ensuring we remain a family-owned business rooted in the values my mother established five decades ago.”
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