Northants pet food manufacturer lands £3.5m funding deal

A Northamptonshire-based animal food manufacturer is set to increase its productivity and annual turnover after landing a funding deal with Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

Dodson & Horrell, a family business established in 1939, specialises in animal nutrition. The firm, which currently employs over 200 people, manufactures and distributes animal food for horses, working dogs, and pets in the UK, and exports to clients in 44 countries.

A £3.5m asset finance facility from Lloyds Bank has been put in place to allow Dodson & Horrell to invest in the automation of the manufacturing process. New machines – to drive innovation in packaging, product flavour and texture – will help to improve productivity and open the business to new markets.

Previously working across two sites near Kettering, on completion of the project, the company will operate solely from the head office site at Kettering Road, Islip.

Bosses at Dodson & Horrell say the move is set double its canine business over the next five years.

Sam Horrell, chief executive officer at Dodson & Horrell, said: “The funding we’ve received from Lloyds Bank will allow us to continue to build on an already solid foundation, growing our brands as well as offering new customers more choice when it comes to animal nutrition.

“We’re continually looking at ways we can improve the range we offer and the service we provide to our customers, and we now have the ability to amplify this on a scale like never before.”

Peter Rothery, relationship director for the East Midlands at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Dodson & Horrell is a well-known and respected brand in the industry, holding royal warrants, and trusted by customers on a global scale. The newly installed technology will help the firm meet increased client demand for innovative products and packaging, and explore even more international trade opportunities.”

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