DIYWEEK.net

A rise in home renovations and house moves has seen the UK’s leading haulier of construction materials, boosting turnover and creating jobs, with support from Lloyds Bank. 

Bimson Haulage said it experienced a significant increase in demand for its delivery services over the past twelve months, after more people chose to undertake private construction projects and make improvements to their homes during lockdown.

To help meet demand, Bimson secured a six-figure funding package from Lloyds Bank, which it will use to upgrade its fleet operator’s licence to 66 vehicles, with 25 new specialist vehicles already on order. 

The vehicles will all also meet Euro 6 emissions standards, making them some of the most efficient and eco-friendly heavy goods vehicles on the market. Meanwhile, the funding has also allowed the business to upgrade its existing fleet with the addition of front, rear and side cameras to help protect vulnerable road users. 

Bimson, which currently has a team of over 70 staff, predict the improvements and expansion of its fleet will allow the business to grow by 20% and create 30 new jobs during the next two years.

Founded in Carlisle in 1947, the family-run business is now in its third generation and has nine sites across the North West, Yorkshire, Staffordshire and London, including its original base in Carlisle.   

Working with construction materials suppliers, builders merchants and housebuilders across the country, the specialist haulier currently distributes around 1,000 deliveries each week. 

Richard Bimson, managing director at Bimson Haulage, said: “The Bimson family business started in construction over 70 years ago and evolved into haulage when my Grandfather identified a gap in the market for those looking to transport construction materials to site.

“Growing from a one-man operation to a successful transport operator, and now an established nation-wide haulier, the business has since far surpassed all expectations. 

“This has been a result of continued emphasis on customer service and reliability, whilst providing a cost-effective service in a demanding industry.

“The support we’ve received from Lloyds Bank has been an integral part of that growth journey and this latest investment will provide us with flexibility to continue realising our ambitions.”

Angela Parry, associate director for HP & leasing at Lloyds Bank, said: “The government’s decision to cut stamp duty has supercharged the housing market. With people also spending more time than ever at home, it’s unsurprising that we’ve seen such a significant increase in the number of private residential construction projects being undertaken. 

“Bimson has not only recognised that demand and put plans in place to meet it, but it’s also facilitated its future growth by choosing to invest in the sustainability and safety of its fleet as well. 

“This latest investment will not only be transformational in terms of providing the head room to allow the business to continue expanding but will also ensure its fleet is fit for years to come. 

“Lloyds Bank is working closely with business customers right across the UK to provide the tailored funding and support needed as they navigate the coming months.”