Oldham anti-viral business receives loan to increase COVID-19 production capacity

Sachets was established in 1987 by Andrew Ball

A family-run manufacturing business has committed to a significant expansion programme, involving a move to a new factory and the installation of new machines, so it can increase its production of anti-bacterial and anti-viral products as part of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Sachets has obtained a £1.8m Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan from NatWest to help fund the expansion programme, which will lead to significant business growth in the coming months.

Based in Oldham, the business manufactures a wide range of household / janitorial cleaning and cosmetic products which are sold direct to retailers or manufactured as own label brands.  

Sachets currently employs over 40 people and is led by Chris Ball and Martin Marshall.  

Sachets was established in 1987 by Chris’ father Andrew Ball.

Chris, Managing Director at Sachets, said: “With the dramatic increase in demand for wipes and other cleaning products due to the outbreak of coronavirus, we found ourselves in a position where we could support frontline workers and the general public by increasing our production capabilities.  

“To do this we needed to buy additional machinery and consolidate our production into a new larger site.  

"We were planning to buy one new machine so we turned to NatWest when we knew a second machine was needed.  

"We expect to be creating more jobs over the coming months and will be looking for staff in a variety of roles.”

He added: “We have had a long and successful relationship with Nat West and we were extremely pleased with the NatWest team and their quick response in finding funding for our business.  

"It’s important to have a bank team you can rely on in these circumstances and we value the continued support we have been given by NatWest.”

Guy Boxall, Relationship Director at NatWest, said: “We were delighted to support Sachets with their significant expansion programme, so they can increase their production as part of the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.”

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