Flexible funding key to success
A specialist steel supplier was able to take advantage of a buoyant market place and lucrative opportunities borne out of the 2012 Olympics thanks to having flexible funding in place to support its development.
The director and his partner executed an MBO of the business after recognising its potential. The company has been involved in a number of high profile projects. In addition, developments in construction enabled the rapid expansion of the business as the construction industry has shifted from the use of bricks and mortar to reinforced concrete. This, coupled with opportunities in pre-fabricated products in line with market demand, has resulted in the business experiencing rapid growth.
Since the MBO, the business utilised stock and invoice finance to leverage funds to assist in managing operating costs. This method of funding served the business well as it is extremely flexible, enabling it to adapt to market conditions related to fluctuating raw material prices. However, our client moved providers twice when service levels declined due to the departure of key contacts.
A key issue for the business is the erratic cost of steel. For example, in the first quarter of 2007 there was an increase of £70 per tonne. The nature of the industry means it is necessary to have a funding partner who understands the market and is prepared to advance additional capital to counteract these fluctuations when required.
Hilton-Baird Financial Solutions got in touch with the business and assisted in finding a facility that could offer everything the business needed. Hilton-Baird identified a shortlist of suitable funding providers who could meet the business’s requirements in terms of flexibility, level of funding and day to day service, and offered analysis and guidance with regards to working through the offers on the table and providing a commercial comparison.
Now with their flexible funding solution in place the business is able to access additional capital to bridge any cash flow gaps that occur.
To see if your business could also benefit from a more flexible funding solution contact our team today on 0800 9774833 or info@hiltonbaird.co.uk. Alternatively, request a call back and one of our team will contact you.
