Training business expands with help from six-figure funding facility
Doncaster-based business Touchstone Education LLP has received funding from Barclays to support its expansion plans and move to new premises.
Founded by Paul and Aniko Smith in 2014, Touchstone Education completed the purchase of its new premises earlier this year and has spent months refurbishing the new premises at Synergy House, Heavens Walk, Doncaster.
The business delivers training on property investment and business fundamentals, helping people achieve their financial dreams through face-to-face courses and online training.
It previously operated from rented premises and purchasing its new headquarters has not only increased its event space by 40% but also provided significant savings on rental costs.
Paul Smith, co-founder and director, said: “We started our expansion plans before the pandemic hit – increasing staffing levels, purchasing new premises and then spending months totally renovating them to provide increased event space whilst reducing our occupancy costs.
“We’ve recently been able to move in to the new premises which has dedicated space for our courses, our colleagues as well as our other related businesses such as Diamond Estates, our estates and lettings agency.
“However, as the pandemic struck and impacted our business model we have also increased our online training courses to make sure we continue to provide training in a timely manner for our customers.”
The six-figure funding facility from Barclays supported the purchase and renovation of the premises and turnover for the business is still expected to exceed £3m this year, even with the impact of lockdown.
Chris North, Barclays Business Manager put together the funding package for the deal together with Jayne Preston, Barclays National Broker Team.
North said: “We’ve been delighted to support a growing and thriving business that is recruiting new employees and contributing to the local economy.
“Touchstone is a well-managed and ambitious company and the new premises will support their growth aspirations so they can operate successfully through these unprecedented times.”
