Independent toy shop chain Toyland was established in 2014 by husband and wife team Gordon and Amanda Walker.
As reported by The Business Desk, the Toyland chain has secured a £400,000 loan from NPIF – Mercia Debt Finance. The company says the funding will boost its purchasing power and enable it to expand stock levels, after undertaking a lease on a new warehouse in Bradford.
Toyland now operates ten stores across the North of England, including Blackpool, Darlington, Doncaster, Halifax, Harrogate, Huddersfield, Kendal, Scarborough and Skipton. With 59 staff currently working for the chain, the expansion is expected to create several new jobs once the new warehouse is fully operational.
Gordon Walker told reporters: “This finance will provide additional working capital to enable us to manage the seasonal fluctuations in trade, and buy stock in larger quantities at better terms to support our continued growth.”
Gordon started his career as an apprentice in his father Barry Walker’s toy business, Conways, in Keighley. He added: “Despite the growth of online retailing, nothing can beat the magic of a real toy shop. Children and parents alike still enjoy the excitement of visiting a store, where they can see and touch and the products at first hand.”
Gary Whitaker, of Mercia Debt Finance, commented: “Gordon has a strong reputation in the industry that allows him access to all the major brands. He and Amanda have built an impressive business that continues to achieve consistent sales and growth. The funding will enable them to strengthen the business and improve efficiency for years to come.”
Keira Shepperson, director at British Business Bank, said: “The success of Toyland is evidence that people still appreciate the traditional toy shop experience, and, with this funding, the business will be able to continue its position as one of the most well-known toy shops in the North. Job creation gives people the chance to expand their opportunities and also breathes life into local economies, aligning with one of the key objectives of NPIF in delivering a thriving Northern business environment.”
