AN historic Aberdeen manufacturer, which is one of the last remaining independent makers of paper watermarking machinery in the UK, has outlined its expansion hopes after securing a £1 million funding deal, writes Scott Wright.

Dyce-based Woollard & Henry, an engineering, machining and fabrication firm, supplies 24 of the world’s 28 bank note manufacturers. It said the funding from Royal Bank of Scotland would support it through the ongoing pandemic, noting that the bank had backed its expansion with new facilities in Germany and Poland.

Woollard & Henry, based at Stoneywood Park, has a team of 55 people.

Managing director Fred Bowden said: “Like all other firms, we have found the last 12 months challenging but as restrictions start to ease, we’re confident that business levels will resume to, if not exceed, pre-Covid levels.

“Our history in Aberdeen dates back to 1873 and we’re very proud of the extensive and innovative products that we have developed over this period. We now supply equipment to 24 of the world’s 28 bank note manufacturers – an achievement we owe to the commitment and skill of our valued team.

“The support and funding from Royal Bank of Scotland has been invaluable.”