The Cumberland Building Society has joined industry body Scotland Food & Drink in a move aimed at strengthening financial support for the country’s food and hospitality businesses.

The building society, which is marking its 175th anniversary this year, will provide specialist commercial lending, savings products and what it describes as a relationship-focused service to the trade association’s 450 members.

The partnership follows Scotland Food & Drink’s annual September campaign, which this year centred on innovation, and comes at a time when the £15bn sector – the nation’s largest employer – continues to face challenges from rising costs, supply chain disruption and staffing shortages.

Food exports from Scotland have risen by 200% in the past decade, underscoring its global importance.

SUPPORTING GROWTH

The Cumberland has already backed a range of food and drink businesses, including more than £1.7m in investment for Monachyle Mhor, the Perthshire hospitality group run by chef and hotelier Tom Lewis. The funding supported expansion at Mhor Bread, the group’s artisan bakery in Callander, allowing it to launch a new takeaway service.

It has also supported Garside Butchers, a family-owned firm in Cumbria, enabling it to move from rented premises to a new owned site.

As part of its commercial lending strategy, the building society provides mortgages, current accounts and business savings products to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and convenience stores.

RELATIONSHIP-FOCUSED

Scott McKerracher, head of commercial at The Cumberland, said: “We’re thrilled to join one of Scotland’s leading food and drink trade associations, which does so much to champion key industries within the country.

“At The Cumberland, our people-first approach means we take the time to understand the businesses we support, building relationships with them that last. As a result we’re able to support them with their financial needs, driven by a personal touch.”

Ian Baxter, chief executive of Scotland Food & Drink, added: “We are here to nurture, support and champion the people and products of Scotland’s food and drink industry to help deliver continued and growing success which enhances Scotland’s global reputation.

“With The Cumberland joining us, we’re able to bring an organisation into our fold which will add another layer of support for businesses, providing them with expert knowledge and financial services to suit their needs.”