Blanket and scarf brand, The Tartan Blanket Co., has received a £1.8 million loan from HSBC UK to purchase new premises, as demand grows globally.
The Edinburgh-based natural wool brand, which makes natural and sustainable tartan blankets, has used the funding to purchase a new 32,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Newbridge after its revenue increased by 100% in 2020.
With blankets and scarves now being sold in over 70 countries worldwide, the new warehouse will allow the company to keep up with increasing demand over its peak winter sales period.
The Tartan Blanket Co. is also aiming to hire 40 new employees within the next year to work in the new premises, giving it further capacity to distribute internationally on a large-scale.
Emma Macdonald, Owner of The Tartan Blanket Co., said: “After setting up in 2014, it’s really exciting to realise how far we’ve come. Our blankets and gifts are now being shipped across the globe, from Scotland to Australia, Canada and the US.
“Our revenue doubled last year, and we’re anticipating the same growth again in 2021.The investment from HSBC UK will enable us to increase capacity and distribution across the world, ensuring we can provide the best-quality blankets and service for years to come.”
Natalie Marshall, Relationship Director at HSBC UK, said: “It’s brilliant to see the strong appetite for contemporary tartan blankets from The Tartan Blanket Co. in Scotland and further afield. With sales increasing so rapidly in the midst of a pandemic, the company has really shown how hard work and a clear vision can result in success.”
The Tartan Blanket Co. was founded by Emma and Fergus Macdonald out of an ambition to create beautiful natural products. One of the company’s most popular lines is its recycled wool blankets, which transform discarded clothes and materials into contemporary tartan blankets.
This year, The Tartan Blanket Co. has also committed to help protect the environment, with the aim of offsetting more carbon than it is producing.
Emma added: “As part of our sustainable practices, which we aim to continue into our new premises, we will be donating 1% of every purchase to environmental causes and 1% to charities and community projects around the world to help those in need.”