York wholefoods business set to create new jobs with six-figure funding

A Yorkshire wholefoods supplier is preparing for expansion after securing a £100k funding package.

Country Products has secured a loan from NPIF - Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia and part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

Based in Tockwith near York, Country Products specialises in packing dried fruit, nuts and other products for brands such as Suma Wholefoods, which are stocked by high street health stores and supermarkets.

Established in 1983 by CEO Mark Leather, the firm currently employs 24 staff, with the funding set to create two new jobs initially.

CEO Mark Leather commented: “As consumers are more aware of healthy eating and want to see more environmentally-friendly packaging, we are responding to demand.

“We see opportunities to win more contracts and target bigger foodservice firms, as well as developing our own Country Products range.

“The funding will give us the growth capital we need to buy in addtitional stock and employ more staff in line with the growth of the business.”

Ian Atkinson, investment manager with Mercia, added: “Country Products has built a reputation as a supplier of quality wholefoods to some of the leading independent wholesalers in the country.

“Having invested in improving plant and efficiency, it is well positioned to take on new opportunities. The funding will allow Mark and his team to put their plans into action.”