Demand leads The Original Baker to expand site and production

The Original Baker in Malton has received a six-figure funding package from HSBC UK to support its growth plans.

The funding has enabled The Original Baker to lease a 6,500 sq ft facility to house packaging and ambient goods which will enable the business to purchase new manufacturing equipment and increase production capacity.

The move is fuelled by growing customer demand, with plans to further diversify its product range.

The Original Baker manufactures baked goods with its pies, pastries, cakes and quiches sold into delis, farm shops and independent food retailers nationally.

The bakery also owns its own vans for distribution across Yorkshire.

Managing director Gillian Ridgard and co-director Cheryl Barrett have grown The Original Baker significantly since they founded the business in April 2019.

When the pandemic hit, they had to pivot from selling to small retailers, to sell online through a hamper supplier for the local area.

Since then, the bakery has grown exponentially and now boasts a UK-wide customer base, with its expanded range now including savoury as well as sweet-baked goods.

During the past year, The Original Baker has also taken on 22 new employees.

Gillian said: “The pandemic was a worrying time for small businesses, but we are pleased we were able to adapt to the conditions and move our business online quickly. We have seen huge growth in our customer base since doing so and, following the HSBC UK support, we have been able to invest in new premises alongside some new equipment, which has enabled us to further increase production and enter the world of confectionary.”

Matthew Joy, of HSBC UK, said: “Like many businesses, The Original Baker had to adapt and pivot during the pandemic.

“The move has paid off and this funding will support the team in their continued push for growth, allowing them to provide the best possible service for their rapidly growing customer base.”