Thomas Taylor to expand overseas

THOMAS Taylor, the Glasgow-based lawn bowls supplier and manufacturer, is gearing up to expand sales overseas after securing a new funding package from Bank of Scotland.

The company, which was founded more than 200 years ago, is looking to recruit its first staff abroad and open a distribution centre in Australia, after taking the distribution rights for its products back in-house in the Antipodean market.

It said the plans will allow it to double its workforce in Australia, from four to eight, over the next five years

The deal with Bank of Scotland provides Thomas Taylor, which employs 47 staff in Glasgow, with a £450,000 overdraft facility, asset-based financial support and currency advice as it looks to build overseas sales.

Australia is the biggest export market, though it also distributes bowls and accessories in Israel.

Thomas Taylor, which has a turnover of £3.4 million, harnesses the latest technology in developing its products, and works closely with the team of sports scientists at the University of Strathclyde. Its plans come amid a resurgence in children learning to play bowls.

Managing director Grant Heron said: “Our business has grown from a small east end business to an internationally renowned firm, but we’ve never lost sight of our history.

“We’re still based in Glasgow and work in partnership with Strathclyde University to develop innovative new products that are designed and produced in our city, then sold around the world.

“The support we have received from Bank of Scotland has really helped with our international strategy.”