An Essex-based safety footwear manufacturer is predicting a 40 per cent increase in sales this year as it launches 25 new designs and prepares for a global expansion.
Headquartered in Rotten, Tuffking has a long history of supplying durable protective boots since it was founded as Giffard, Newton and Sons in 1854. Now, in response to growing demand for its products around the world, the company is expanding its global presence and aims to achieve a turnover of £50 million by 2030.
The company, which currently operates in 15 countries, has borrowed an £850,000 funding package, including trade finance, from Lloyds Bank to serve emerging markets. As part of the investment, Tuffking will create six new jobs, increasing its current employee base by 50 percent.
The company has a rich history, having supplied the military during both world wars and repurposing its Chesham factory to repair and redistribute shoes to Allied forces, which has earned Tuff King a reputation for providing high-quality, British-made products that are built to last.
While Tuff King will continue to supply the military into 2024, it has also solidified its reputation as the go-to brand for the UK's emergency services, nearly tripling its customer base since 2021. Now, after significant investment and innovation, acting on customer feedback has opened up new opportunities for the company to modernise, diversify and grow.
Tough King has used its 170 years of technical knowledge to redesign its entire catalogue. The result is an “industry-leading” boot made from 100% recycled, vegan materials and post-consumer waste. These boots are much lighter and more sustainable than previous models, making them essential for the modern worker.
Tuffking now has over 100 products, which have been redesigned to be lighter, more comfortable and more sustainable, while still maintaining the quality and safety Tuffking is known for.
Ryan Dhindsa, managing director at Tuffking, commented: “We have a long history in the UK and have built a reputation for providing high-quality products that customers can trust, but we never wanted to become complacent. We know that many businesses are evolving rapidly, so we wanted to keep up with that.”
“Investing in innovation, with the support of Stuart and the team at Lloyds Bank, gives us a platform for growth and ensures an advantage over our competitors.
“Our company has a wealth of technical knowledge and experience and for me it's all about using that to our advantage. With so many new sectors requiring specialist design to meet their needs, the opportunities and potential for growth are endless.”
