EPD Insulation Group Ltd, an independent, family-run supplier to the construction sector, has received £18.5 million in working capital from NatWest to refinance existing banking arrangements and support its future expansion plans.
Founded in 2011, the group has grown rapidly and now employs around 150 people. Its head office and main distribution centre are based in Peterborough, with a second distribution site in Frome, near Bristol. From these two locations, the business supplies a large and diverse range of building materials to screeding, drylining, brickwork, façade and online retail customers, as well as national and independent builders’ merchants. EPD Insulation Group services customers within a 180-mile radius of its distribution hubs.
The deal underscores the role regional businesses like EPD Insulation Group play in the local economy by creating jobs, supporting the construction supply chain and investing in community projects. It also highlights the appetite among lenders to back firms with clear growth ambitions and strong local roots.
As EPD Insulation Group looks ahead, the focus remains on controlled expansion, improved customer service across England, and continued support for the communities in which it operates, ensuring that the benefits of its growth are felt far beyond the warehouse door.
Steve Boon, Founder and Chairman of EPD Insulation Group, said: “From the outset, I have been impressed by the professionalism of the NatWest team, which has been consistent throughout our engagement. We are pleased to be partnering with a bank that shares the ambitions of EPD Insulation Group.
“When presented with robust forecasting and a proven track record, NatWest provided us with a large and diverse funding package that allows us to continue growing the business in a controlled manner, while retaining the flexibility to react quickly to changing markets and future opportunities.”
Tony Brown, Managing Director of EPD Insulation Group, said: “The recent NatWest funding package will support continued investment in our newly launched, fully compliant drywall system, Alpha Drywall Systems.
“Following a comprehensive programme of fire and acoustic testing, it is the first fire- and acoustic-tested drywall system to be offered by a distribution company, enabling EPD Insulation Group to deliver competitive, compliant solutions for commercial and residential projects.”
Steve Murray, Relationship Director, Commercial Mid-Market, East of England at NatWest, said: “EPD Insulation Group is a great example of a regional business with strong family values, a clear growth strategy and deep roots in its local community.
This funding package is designed to give the business the stability and capacity it needs to invest for the long term – in its people, its sites and its systems – while continuing to support jobs and economic activity across the region. We’re proud to be backing Steve and the team as they take the next step in their growth journey.”
The construction sector has faced significant challenges in recent years, with rising costs, supply chain pressures and skills shortages impacting projects nationwide. EPD Insulation Group’s model, combining sizeable stockholding with efficient logistics, is designed to help contractors keep projects moving.
For further press information, please contact Jessica Barker, Corporate Affairs Manager at NatWest: jessica.barker@natwest.com
About NatWest
NatWest is a UK-focused bank serving over 20 million customers, with businesses across retail, commercial and private banking markets. As a leading UK bank, we work hard to enable our customers and their businesses to succeed. Today, our customers’ businesses reach far and wide. New opportunities bring new challenges and our ability to access global markets benefits everyone.
About EPD Insulation Group
EPD Insulation Group is FORS Gold accredited the highest standard under the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme. This accreditation allows the business to deliver to restricted sites, including many major construction projects, without additional complications a key advantage for local contractors working on larger schemes.
Investment in a new digital delivery system now allows customers to track deliveries in real time, supporting transparency and reliability both critical in an industry where timing is everything.
The company also raises funds for several charities, including North West Anglia Hospitals Charity, The Salvation Army and Alzheimer’s Research UK. Closer to home, it sponsors the Whittlesey Blues FC Under-16s football team, helping to support grassroots sport and opportunities for young people in the area.
