A SOUTHPORT bakery has raised £300,000 for new equipment to bring in new high-tech equipment to assist the firm’s expansion plans.

The Dutch Bakery, which was founded in Liverpool 50 years ago, plans to target new sectors with its cakes, pies and pastries.

It was set up by Nic and Vera Klassen, the parents of current managing director Derek Klassen, who has worked at the bakery since leaving school. It employs 21 staff and last year had a turnover of £700,000.

He said: “We needed funding to fit out the premises with new, modern equipment so we can make our products quicker and more efficiently to keep up with demand.

“We now want to broaden our customer base and are particularly looking to target hotels in Liverpool and national pub chains.”

The company’s funding package includes a £50,000 loan from Alliance Fund Managers together with support from Barclays.

AFM investment manager Alan Birkett said: “Derek has managed to maintain company traditions whilst also recognising the need to move with the times and is driving the business to the next level.”