Aggregates firm targets growth after new funding deal
AN Erdington-based aggregates company is targeting growth after securing a new six-figure funding deal.
Founded in 1964, H.D. Ricketts is a family-run business supplying quarry, recycling and packaging sites across the West Midlands – including Rugeley and Dunton. Using a fleet of 34 vehicles, materials including recycled aggregates, sand and gravel are delivered to builder’s merchants, garden centres and specialist builders UK wide.
Keen to expand and purchase a new quarry, H.D. Ricketts’ managing director Adrian Ricketts turned to NatWest for help and was rewarded with a six-figure loan. The deal has enabled the business to purchase a 320-acre site in Weeford, Staffordshire.
Over the next two years, the onsite workshop and office premises will also be upgraded to incorporate renewable energy sources, including solar panels and wood burners.
The company, which employs 50 people, transports 3,800 tonnes of materials per day.
Ricketts said: “To stay competitive and prepare us for future growth, this quarry purchase was vital and something we have looked to do for a while.
“With backing from NatWest we now have the land and capacity we need to increase turnover and, most importantly, better service our loyal customer base.
“Looking to the future, it’s also important that we reinstate the land over time, and we are working closely with the local council to ensure the quarry is fully restored to a natural environment by 2042.”
Neil Mellings, senior relationship manager for NatWest, added: “Working alongside Adrian and the team, we are proud to be a part of H.D. Ricketts’ continued growth and look forward to supporting the company with their future plans.”
