A DRINKS distribution business born 10 years ago when two friends visited Peru and discovered a delicious beer, is set to top £100m turnover this year.
Manchester-based Chilli Marketing, founded by friends Kieron Barton and Gareth Whittle, began their business with an exclusive deal to supply Cusqueña beer - which they fulfilled by delivering from their car boots.
Today, the company employs 60 people and supplies customers in Spain, Switzerland, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, South America, South Africa and China.
To boost its growth the business has agreed a substantial working capital facility with Barclays.
Chilli Marketing exclusively distributes Sweden's Rekorderlig cider globally and also manages other brands in the UK including; Abro Lager, Cusquena and Saint lager to bars, hotels, restaurants and retailers.
Growth has been dramatic over the last three years - in 2011 turnover was just £3m.
Joint owner Gareth Whittle said: "Chilli Marketing has grown significantly over the last few years and from this we have developed a strong relationship with Barclays as we need a banking partner for the long-term, supportive of our aims and ambitions."
The enhanced facility was arranged by the North West Corporate Banking team at the bank led by relationship director Philippa Moors.
She commented: "Chilli Marketing is a fascinating company to work with and I have thoroughly enjoyed building a strong partnership with the management team over the last few years. The energy and passion of all the staff has enabled them to achieve phenomenal growth in a short space of time, without the need for equity funding.
"This is a well-run, growing North West business and is now ideally positioned to continue on its growth track over the coming years."
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