Shropshire potato merchants take over former munitions store as business expands
A potato merchant in rural Shropshire has expanded its operation after moving into a former World War II munitions store using a "six figure" package of loans.
The Maincrop Potatoes business was founded in 2009 by joint managing directors Alan Birch and Mark Jones and the independent merchants has since expanded to support 200 growers across the UK.
The firm supplies a network of food outlets, supermarket chains and food manufacturers nationwide.
Now, after the company decided that it needed to increase its potato storage capacity with a move out of rented premises in nearby Nesscliffe, Maincrop has bought and redeveloped the former munitions store to create a five-acre storage site.
The new facility, on the outskirts of Knockin near Oswestry, is capable of storing 2,000 tonnes of potatoes at any one time.
The deal was secured after the Shropshire company sealed a six-figure lending agreement with the NatWest bank.
Mr Birch said: "It's a very proud moment to see the facility now up and running, having taken six months to complete.
"Our new home provides us with greater flexibility, room to grow and includes features which are compliant with forthcoming changes to the regulations on sprouting control.
"We've had backing from NatWest and also RBS Invoice Finance for a number of years now, working closely with our managers Julia Drever and Cheryl Staples.
"We are grateful for their ongoing support and continued enthusiasm for our business."
Julia Drever, senior relationship manager for NatWest, added: "We are proud to support Maincrop Potatoes through an exciting period of growth, which will strengthen the business's position in the sector."
Cheryl Staples, of RBS Invoice Finance, was also on hand to wish the pair well.
