The CBILS loan has enabled the business to maintain a steady cashflow and cope with increased demand as they continued distributing essential supplies of PPE, hygiene and cleaning products to front-line workers in the NHS, care homes, local councils and the food manufacturing sector during the global health crisis.  

With access to vital PPE scarce and normal suppliers unable to cope with demand, the funding enabled Guthrie Group to source new and alternative suppliers globally in order to ensure continuity of supplies.  

The family-run company - which also specialises in the procurement and distribution of workwear, and catering supplies and packaging - currently employs 20 members of staff and is hopeful that the recent funding will enable it to expand its workforce post-COVID-19.  

Cynthia Guthrie, CEO of Guthrie Group, said: “Like many other businesses, whilst mindful of a second wave, we are beginning to look past coronavirus. As the global health crisis subsides, and with Brexit on the horizon, we are working hard to expand our footprint, not just across Scotland and the UK, but on an international scale.  

“The funding and incredible support from Royal Bank of Scotland has allowed us to cope with increased demand and ensure continuity through the pandemic, and as we look ahead it will enable us to research and source new manufacturers as well as to increase the software capability of our unique CloudStockIMS software.” 

Stuart Bell, relationship manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, added: “No company could have foreseen the coronavirus outbreak, so it is vital that we can support our customers financially to help them through this challenging time. 

“Guthrie Group is a fantastic local business and I have full confidence the company will continue to thrive once this pandemic is over.”