By Julian Whittle

Last updated at 08:45, Tuesday, 26 February 2013

Mr Vikki's, the award-winning hot sauce and spice manufacturer, has moved to new premises at High Hesket Business Park.

Adam Marks, founder of Mr Vikki’s and Katherine Thomas, Lloyds TSB Commercial relationship manager

The business was founded in 2005 by Adam Marks and his partner Mary Ballantyne, working from their home at Eamont Bridge, near Penrith.

The move to High Hesket was made possible by a six-figure cash injection from Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking under the Government’s Funding for Lending scheme.

As well as providing more space, the new premises include a shop where customers can buy the products.

Mr Marks said: “As a self-confessed chilli addict, I was disappointed by the lack of variety in chilli sauces and saw a niche area where I could create my own premium brand.

“Since we launched, the progress we have made has been outstanding and it is so exciting to open our first store.”

The business began with six spicy sauces sold online and at farmers’ markets.

Mr Vikki’s now has more than 60 products from chutneys and jams to curry pastes and spices, stocked by premium retailers such as Fortnum & Mason and Harvey Nichols. The brand has collected 56 Great Taste awards in six years – a dozen last year alone.

Mr Marks added: “We couldn’t have asked for a better banking partner.

“After providing us with guidance when we launched, we knew they understood our aims and would be able to help us with the next phase of our progression.”

Katherine Thomson, relationship manager at Lloyds TSB Commercial Banking, said: “Adam and his family run a fantastic local business that capitalises on a niche, yet profitable, gap in the market.

“Mr Vikki’s is proof that a strong business plan, combined with the right financial support, can be a real recipe for success.”

First published at 08:39, Tuesday, 26 February 2013
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk