Over £1 million investment in Gateshead oil business boost sales

GB Lubricants, based in Gateshead, is committed to future growth by expanding its existing business in the UK. Whilst also targeting specialist and export markets with its portfolio of high quality engine, transmission and hydraulic oils and greases.

The oils and greases are used in everything from construction equipment and forestry machinery to the latest range of fuel-efficient trucks used in the road haulage industry.

The company, which celebrates its 140^th year in 2017, employs a workforce of 50 with a loyal customer base in Northern England and Scotland plus many high profile nationwide contracts.

Commercial Director, Paul Booth, who joined the company in February 2016, says it’s an exciting time with inward investment in the business boosting storage capacity for incoming raw materials and finished products.

Bulk storage tanks have been refurbished to boost storage capacity to 700,000 litres, production capacity is being increased, as well as the offices and the general site being upgraded.

“The strategic investment is designed to prepare the company for the next 40 years and beyond, including improving the security of supply by increasing storage capacity and ensuring that the site remains future-proofed in terms of compliance,” said Mr Booth.

“Further expansion is very much on the cards. We have just purchased a neighbouring parcel of land which will increase the footprint of the two-acre site by one third and forms part of our long term strategy.”

 “If sales continue to increase month on month, as they have been this year, then naturally we will be looking at more recruitment as well.”

 “One of the reasons I joined the company was the inward investment in the company by the owners. You don’t get many opportunities like this one and it’s exciting for everybody associated with the company.”

“Many of our loyal staff have been with the company for an amazing amount of time, including a sales representative with 48 years’ service and another blender with 40 years’ allegiance to the frim.”

While the company’s core business is in Northern England and Scotland, Mr Booth explained that GB Lubricants is also keen to further expand its nationwide contracts and grow its export sales.

“It’s marvellous for us to see this level of investment in such a longstanding local company.”