Armstrong Richardson & Co strike NatWest deal for future growth

Agricultural merchants Armstrong Richardson & Co has secured a seven-figure funding deal with NatWest to support its future business growth plans.

Established in 1925, the company was originally a supplier of farm animal feeds and fertilizer but has now expanded into other sectors including Retailing, Wholesaling, Fuel, Transport and Entertainments divisions.

In 2007, the company relocated its head office from the old Union Mill in the market town of Stokesley, North Yorkshire, to a new purpose built warehouse and offices on Stokesley Business Park.

Millbry Hill, AR Wholesale, AR Agriculture, AR Fuels, C&C Horse Transport AR Entertainments and the recent acquisition of Equimix Feeds, Worcester, all now trade under the Armstrong Richardson & Co umbrella.

The company’s four Millbry Hill retail stores are for the country, equestrian and pet enthusiast whilst AR Wholesale delivers pet and equestrian feed nationwide. The agricultural division still supplies farm animal feeds and fertilizer as well as trading grain and mixing grass seed for distribution across the UK.

C&C Horse Transport moves equines throughout the UK and Europe, AR Fuels provides fuel for agricultural, commercial and domestic use and AR Entertainments provides a full event management service including the supply of equipment such as large inflatables and games.

To ensure the smooth running of all departments, more than 180 people are employed by Armstrong Richardson & Co, which has a £36m turnover and still retains its family business ethos. The directors took the decision to move their banking to NatWest as they were impressed with the bank’s commitment to supporting the business for the future.

Mark Jones, joint managing director, said: “As a business we have plans for an expansion in the future. NatWest made it clear to us they will support us in this and also offered financing that will support our long-term goals. We look forward to building on this new relationship.”

Keith Barnes, relationship director at NatWest, added: “I was delighted to support Armstrong Richardson & Co on this funding arrangement which will enable the business to move forward with its growth ambitions. I look forward to working with the business in the future.”

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