Bradford distributor creates 20 new jobs as kitchen appliances remain in hot demand

EPE International, the distributor of domestic appliances, has bought a new warehouse unit and is expanding its workforce after securing a £3m loan from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

The Bradford-based company has bought a 50,000 sq ft unit at Euroway Trading Estate after outgrowing its current distribution centre located on the same scheme.

The new building will help the firm boost distribution capacity.

In addition to acquiring the bigger premises, EPE is also planning to hire 20 staff across different business functions, and is reviewing opportunities for strategic acquisitions to help develop market share further.

Launched in 2003, the company currently employs 60 staff members with a turnover of more than £20m.

EPE, which distributes 1,500 different products including coffee machines, toasters, kettles and cookware, was also recently listed in London Stock Exchange Group’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain 2018 list for its quick growth and service to customers.

Harry Singh, operations and finance director at EPE International, said: “Having the new warehouse unit offers us the capacity to expand our market share. It follows steady expansion of our presence at Euroway Trading Estate, and now we have three distribution centres at the scheme.

“Lloyds Bank has been an excellent partner throughout the business’s growth, and we look forward to working with the team as we continue to develop the company.”

Samantha Ackroyd, area director at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, added: “EPE International has managed to rapidly grow its market share over the last decade through its dedication to supporting customers, and its in-house expertise of the sector.

“EPE actively provides customers with the insight needed to be more successful in their sales practices. Its resulted in better retention of clients, and a progressively larger customer base. We’re committed to helping Britain prosper by supporting businesses like this, which is why we’ve grown our net lending to SMEs by 31% since 2011.”

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