Rotherham tent firm builds on outdoor operating boom with HSBC funding

A South Yorkshire firm specialising in tents and marquees has secured six-figure funding to support an increased demand for outdoor events supplies.

Gala Tent, which is based in Rotherham, has restructured a finance facility with HSBC UK to support a range of industries shift to operating outdoors.

Founded in 1999, Gala Tent specialises in tents, gazebos and marquees for outdoor events such as weddings, sporting events and birthdays.

The firm has used the funding to pivot its business model throughout the pandemic to supply retailers, the hospitality industry, medical facilities and infrastructure projects with temporary outdoor spaces as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jason Mace, managing director of Gala Tent, commented: “When the coronavirus crisis hit, it was important for us to adjust our funding quickly to ensure we could continue with business-as-usual activities as well as change our business model to support the national effort.

“We’re delighted HSBC UK came on board as it means we’ve been able to support education, healthcare, hospitality and retail businesses with vital outdoor spaces.

“Despite the challenges, we’ve learnt a lot in a very short space of time and we’re sure this will stand us in good stead for many years to come.”

David Leonard, relationship director for HSBC UK, added: “It has been excellent to see Gala Tent adjust so quickly to dramatic changes in the market. Through a knowledgeable understanding of its products, the business has been able to cater for the specific needs of different industries quickly and provide the right solutions.

“We want to thank Gala for its role in the UK’s COVID-19 response and are happy to play our part in this fantastic story.”