Home improvement supplier MB Distribution to create 20 jobs in Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough family business MB Distribution Ltd, a supplier to the home improvement industry, has revealed plans to create jobs at its new multi-million pound premises.

The company received a six-figure grant through the SSI Task Force at the end of 2017, which enabled it to build a 30,000 sq ft bespoke warehouse and retail outlet in the east of the city.

The development’s main structure is up and work is set to start on the interiors. Once the £2.5m scheme completes in 2019, MB Distribution hopes to take on around 20 additional staff over the next two to three years.

The expansion was backed by £247k from the Tees Valley Capital Grant, secured with support from advisory firm Baldwins.

The grant was set up by the SSI Task Force, launched to help local businesses grow and create jobs in the wake of the SSI Redcar plant closing down.

MB Distribution Ltd managing director Mike Greenup said: “We have invested in over three acres of land, close to A66 transport links, and the building is looking fantastic. We can’t wait to see the finished look once the interior is complete.

“The business could not grow any further in its current premises and the new building is crucial to the next stage of our development, as it will allow us to broaden our product and geographical range.”

He continued: “Once the building is up and running we anticipate new jobs in the warehouse, shop, administration and potentially marketing.

“We hope to get the keys before Christmas, with the official opening taking place around February. Watch this space!”

One of the UK’s fastest growing accountancy firms, Baldwins has worked with the business for 20 years, providing auditing and advisory services.

Andrew Rowe, partner at Baldwins, part of CogitalGroup, commented: “It has been brilliant to see what is at heart still a family business, grow into a national player and become one of Teesside’s major success stories.

“We feel really proud to have advised the company along this journey.

Amanda Skelton, SSI Task Force chair, commented: “Over the past three years the Task Force has helped to create nearly 2,000 jobs by investing in local companies.

“MB Distribution is an example of an ambitious local business needing some support to release its expansion plans. Help is still available through our Tees Valley Capital Grant Scheme for like-minded entrepreneurs.”