A SCOTTISH seafood wholesaler is set to increase exports to Europe and Asia with a seven-figure funding boost.

DR Collin & Son, based in Eyemouth in the Scottish Borders, aims to expand production capacity to meet growing demand with HSBC UK backing.

The business purchases British shellfish, processes it for sale and exports it. Its primary export market is France, where the company has recently set-up a subsidiary business to increase designated support.

However, demand is also increasing in Spain and Italy, as well as in Asia.

James Cooke, DR Collin & Son’s managing director, said the funding allowed the company to “support the sustainable growth” of its export business.

He added: “The bank’s support has enabled us to increase our production ability to meet the strong demand for the shellfish we supply in Europe and Asia.

“HSBC UK understands our global ambition and has provided incredibly valuable insight to support the sustainable growth of our export business. Working with a global bank has also provided synchronicity and efficiencies with operating our business here in Scotland and in France.”

Nigel Kerr of HSBC UK said: “DR Collin & Son has a long track record of delivering quality British shellfish to international markets, and we’re pleased to support the business as it sustainably increases its exports, while also enabling it to more easily trade in two different countries.”

DR Collin & Son was first established in 1952, and currently employs 210 staff across the group.

Located near the mouth of the river Eye, where there is a natural harbour for fishing, DR Collin & Son sources fish from here and around the UK, with smaller bases in the Highlands and Amble.