Kids@Play, a Chepstow-based supplier and manufacturer of award-winning children’s toys, is set to open a new distribution site in Wales to cater for increasing demand for its products following a £425,000 trade finance and funding facility from Santander Corporate & Commercial. The firm is also set to invest in its manufacturing base in China to help fulfil orders from both established customers as well as a growing number in new markets such as Australia.

Established in 2005, Kids@Play was set up by Malcolm Evans following a 37-year career in the toy industry, and specialises in manufacturing outdoor products and battery powered vehicles for children.

In 2011 the firm was named as the Fastest Growing Business in Manufacturing and Engineering by the University of Wales global academy as well as placed in the Wales Fast Growth 50 awards.

The firm, which has a base in Welsh Street, Chepstow, was recently awarded a licence from ITV to produce a range of Thunderbirds products. In addition, the business has produced an exclusive range of Shaun the Sheep-themed promotional items for the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

Kids@Play has plans to expand into new markets in 2016 with recent contract wins across the globe include deals in South Africa, France, Spain and Australia. To better cater for the increased trading volumes, the business is now set to open a new distribution depot in South Wales and invest in its manufacturing capabilities in China – particularly with regards to printing on inflatable materials.

Malcolm Evans, Managing Director, Kids@Play, said: “Santander Corporate & Commercial has played a vital role in assisting our expansion as we look to target new markets and capitalise on new market opportunities. We are extremely grateful for the bank’s support and have been impressed with its approach and service, particularly with the help and advice we have been given regarding our international aspirations.”

David Walters, International Director, Santander Corporate & Commercial, said: “Kids@Play is a great local success story with strong ambitions and we’re delighted to support Malcolm and his team. He has developed a remarkable business and the expansion into the new premises is tangible proof of the firm’s success in the UK and internationally.”