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Get your free copy30 September 2013, 08:04 AM
- Early September saw the launch of The Heart Distribution Producer Growth Scheme, providing loans to small businesses to aid their growth within the marketplace
The scheme is designed to help businesses which have worked with Heart for over 12 months, and in special cases those outside of this. The company offers assistance with business planning, marketing and development, including free product photography and product panels.
During each quarter, five producers will be given a loan of up to £5,000 to be paid back in a scheme chosen by the producer.
Caoire Blakemore, Heart Distribution’s commercial manager said, “Heart has been going now for nearly five years, and we’ve seen some great product come into the marketplace. We’ve also seen some of our producers struggle to grow – they may have a great product that is commercially viable but need just a little help to get it going.
“The scheme is aimed at helping the British food and drink producers in Heart take that next step in a climate where it is difficult for them to obtain bank loans. Even when loans are granted, they usually do not come with reasonable interest rates. We hope that the scheme will be mutually beneficial for both Heart and its producers. By providing funding that enables producers to expand their product ranges, Heart in turn should be able to strengthen the range of products it offers to retailers.”
