AN Easingwold-based suncream manufacturer is celebrating a tan-tastic boost to its turnover.

Tancream, which manufactures the world’s first skin cream to combine SPF50 and ultra UVA sun protection with self-tanning agents, has seen its turnover soar by a third after securing its first export distribution deals.

The company, which began trading in 2017, has landed deals with healthcare and pharmaceutical distributor Pharmed in the Republic of Ireland and a distributor in Finland and Estonia.

The deal with Tancream’s new northern European partner came about after the company exhibited at Cosmoprof Worldwide cosmetics trade show in Bologna, with support from the Department for International Trade (DIT), which has also led to discussions with a major international catalogue retailer to list its products in Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain.

Company co-founder Gillian Robson had the idea for Tancream after she was diagnosed with skin cancer and decided to create a product that would allow her to achieve a tanned look without the associated skin damage.

After identifying a gap in the market for a single product that combined the UV protection of sun cream with self-tanning, moisturising and anti-ageing properties, Gillian and her business partner Katy Foxcroft spent three years working with experts to develop Tancream’s unique formulation.

Gillian said: “Many people want to look like they have a tan, but are concerned about the long-term skin damage that the sun’s rays can cause.

“Tancream means they can protect their skin from harsh UVA and UVB rays while still gaining and maintaining a healthy glow.”

The company has already sold its products to customers in markets as far afield as the US and Australia through its website and has been working with digital specialists at DIT to learn how to improve its search rankings to help increase its online export sales.

It is also looking at opportunities to sell its products through a TV shopping channel in Germany, as well as a potential new distribution partner to supply salons in Dubai and customers in South Africa.

DIT regional head Mark Robson said: “Tancream has developed a product that fits a global market niche and is already reaping the rewards.

“Exporting can help businesses like Tancream achieve greater profitability and resilience, but the process can also have its challenges, which is why we’re on hand to offer our support and guidance.”

“The latest HMRC statistics show that Yorkshire and Humber’s goods exports totalled £18.1 billion in 2018, up 7.8 per cent on the year before.”