Funding fuels international growth for Bridgewood

A LEADING supplier of engineered plastic components is creating new jobs and targeting overseas markets with the help of £1m in funding.

Bridgewood UK based in Hessle is to significantly increase its workforce  following the cash injection from Santander Corporate & Commercial.

As well as recruiting 20 new staff, the East Yorkshire firm will use the funding to fuel international sales and improve processes at its 100,000 sq ft factory.

Situated close to the Humber Bridge, Bridgewood is one of the UK’s leading producers of thermoformed plastic components. The 100-strong company has operated from its current site for over 25 years and has grown its turnover by 70% over the past four years.

Its primary industry sectors in the UK and overseas include construction equipment, agricultural machinery, touring caravans and holiday homes.

Key customers include Caterpillar, Wrightbus and the Case New Holland Group.

Overseas markets are constantly expanding, with significant demand from Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas.

Nabiel Khan, director at Bridgewood UK, said: “We are building on our reputation for technical excellence with a new strategic drive to become best in class in customer service and delivery. With Santander’s help, we are able to ramp up our export business and increase our workforce, as well as bring improvements to our manufacturing processes and facility.”

Andy Bowden, relationship director at Santander Corporate & Commercial, said: “Exporting is a key part of the success of the UK economy and it’s fantastic to see ambition on this scale from this dynamic company. Santander is committed to helping UK manufacturers grow both at home and overseas, and with our considerable global strength and expertise, we are well placed to help Yorkshire businesses with their international growth plans.”