Alamgeer Foods invests £100k on spice imports

The West Midlands firm has stepped up imports from Pakistan, India and China and has also begun importing from other countries such as Thailand and Malaysia.

The family company was able to secure new contracts thanks to a £100,000 international trade finance loan from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

Alamgeer Foods director Mohammed Zeb welcomed the investment which would allow the company to add to its 25-strong workforce.

Increased demand ahead of festivals

“By securing this Lloyds Bank financial package, we have been able to significantly increase our food importing business, which will help us as we strive to meet increased demand for our products ahead of festivals including Ramadan,” Zeb said.

“This investment will also help us to begin importing spices and ingredients from other parts of Asia, which will enable us to realise our growth ambitions, and increase the amount of products we offer.”

Alamgeer Foods describes itself as the leading manufacturer of a curry masala blend known as basaar in Northern Pakistan and Kashmir.

Started as a small grocery shop in Birmingham in 1979, it has grown into a major importer and distributor of Asian foods. The firm is now based in Darlaston.

International trade ‘vital’ to economic recovery

Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking relationship manager Mandi Roberts said: “Enabling international trade is a vital part of encouraging the economic recovery. So we’re pleased to support Alamgeer Foods as it looks to increase its level of imports, which in turn will allow it to expand its manufacturing and distribution business.”

The bank has also provided the company with an invoice discounting facility.

Lee Mason, from Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance, said: “Our invoice finance service helps businesses free up their cash-flow to achieve their growth ambitions, and we’re pleased to be working with Alamgeer Foods to help them do just that.”