Aimia Foods, a leading hot beverage manufacturer based in Haydock, is set for substantial growth following support from HSBC UK.
The funding will enable the company to expand its operations, including moving to a larger warehouse and increasing growth across several product ranges. This follows the business’s re-acquisition by its founding family in June 2024, facilitated by an eight-figure funding package from HSBC UK.
Known for owning brands like Horlicks and Drink Me Chai, together with manufacturing and distributing some of the leading FMCG brands within UK Retail, Aimia Foods will also invest in new equipment to boost production capacity, enhance efficiency, and explore new packaging formats. This will help the business meet evolving customer demands and remain competitive in the market.
Aimia Foods supplies all channels in the UK, including retail, foodservice, vending and online, and has an export division. The company offers extensive sales and marketing capabilities, serving both its own and third-party brands.
Founded in 1981 by Gary and Ian Unsworth as a vending ingredients supplier, Aimia Foods was sold to Nichols PLC in 1986. The family regained ownership in 2004 and successfully increased the annual turnover from £30 million to £65 million over the following decade. Sold to Primo in 2014, Aimia Foods was re-acquired by the family in June 2024 with HSBC’s support. It now has a turnover in excess of £120m.
Rob Unsworth, Executive Chairman at Aimia Foods, said: “On behalf of the family, we are absolutely delighted by the support HSBC has provided through this funding package. The team has shown a strong belief in our vision and understood our future goals for the business. The team at HSBC UK has been incredibly supportive, demonstrating a clear commitment to our growth and success. This partnership has been instrumental in enabling us to expand our operations and explore new opportunities. Aimia Foods is an excellent business with immense potential, and we are excited about the journey ahead and the positive impact we can make in the industry.”
Andy Oates, Head of Corporate, West Midlands, UK CMB, added: “We are delighted to support Aimia Foods as it embarks on this next chapter of its growth journey. This funding package underscores our commitment to helping businesses like Aimia Foods expand and innovate. We look forward to seeing how their investment in new markets will drive their success and further strengthen their significant presence in the food and drink sector. It’s an exciting time for Aimia Foods, and we are proud to be part of their continued success.”
