AN equestrian equipment suppliers will be making strides with its online presence following a £3.75 million cash injection.

Matchmakers International, based in Wibsey, sells around 9,000 products from its 105,000 sq ft site spread over three floors. These products are split over brands; Harry Hall, Caldene, Cottage Craft, Masta and One K.

Its product range covers every aspect of equestrian, for both the horse and rider, including helmets, horse blankets and rugs, wellington boots and jackets.

Now it has been boosted by the multi-million pound cash injection from Bibby Financial Services (BFS), which it will partly spend on its ecommerce section including boosting its online presence, which will go live next spring.

Matchmakers, which was set up in 1978, has 56 employees working from its headquarters at Park View Mills, Wibsey Park Avenue, working in departments including sales, warehouse and marketing.

The firm sells its products to around 500 stores across the UK, with most of these independent retailers.

They also export across the world to countries including China, Japan and Australia, with France and Germany key markets for them.

Liz Hopper, managing director, who joined the company in January 2014, said: “We are a one stop for equestrian products. We have a profile of well-known equestrian brands.

“A lot of people don’t know we are here in Wibsey.

“As a company with heritage brands, we have enjoyed serving our customers for decades. We design and manufacture full rider clothing.

“We are now looking forward to focusing on developing and selling to an increasing array of businesses and consumers.

“As we approach 2017, we are excited to further establish ourselves as a leading company in this industry.

“Team GB has started to rebuild the profile of equestrian.

“It is a female industry, as 80 per cent of horseriders are women. It is a lifestyle, not just a sport.

“It’s a big market. There are around 1.3m riders in the UK.

“Even when times are hard, this industry is recession proof. It’s a passion for people. The popularity of fishing and golf has declined.

“Most of our employees are horsey people. They have that specialist knowledge.”

The jewel in Matchmakers’ crown is arguably Harry Hall. Established in 1891, this strand of its operation sells items including leg and leisurewear and gilets.

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