Gluten Free Kitchen cooks up expansion success

A thriving food business has seen significant growth following a major investment that has fuelled expansion and innovation.

The Gluten Free Kitchen, based in Leyburn, North Yorkshire, has trebled its business size after relocating to a larger 3,000 sq ft unit at Leyburn Business Park.

The move, supported by six-figure funding from FW Capital through the first Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF) in 2023, has enabled the company to double its sales, expand its team and develop new products, including exclusive launches with Ocado and a festive range of gluten-free treats.

Established in 2005 by Sue Fleming to address challenges faced by people with coeliac disease, The Gluten Free Kitchen now supplies its premium “free-from” cakes, puddings and pies through its online store. A selection of products are available in some Waitrose stores, online at Ocado, as well as independent outlets and farm shops throughout the UK. 

The investment has also supported a website revamp, making it easier for customers to order its growing product range.

Sue said: “We’d never have done the move without FW Capital and we’re delighted to be in our new premises.

“Our previous site was fit to burst, and we just didn’t have the space to meet increased demand and expand our ranges of treats. We’ve nearly doubled sales since we’ve relocated and brought in new people to support our kitchen and warehouse activities.

“Next year we’re hoping to further expand the team. We’re now in the midst of the Christmas run-up and excited to launch a fantastic new Christmas Pudding using a great recipe.

“We’re also going great guns with Ocado which is fantastic. The investment from FW Capital has also helped us to update our website, making it more user friendly for consumers.”

Lindsey McMenamin, portfolio manager at FW Capital, added: “I’m thrilled with the success that Sue and the team at The Gluten Free Kitchen are enjoying, and it is great to see the impact funding for growth can have. 

“Its super to catch up with Sue and see all the exciting developments! It’s a busy time for the team in the run up to Christmas with the demand for ‘free from’ products increasing, and this new facility is allowing them to take full advantage of that.”

The British Business Bank launched the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II) in March 2024. The new £660 million NPIF II covers the entire North of England and provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to start up, scale up or stay ahead.

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