(Left to right) Shetland Mussels owners Richard Tait and Michael Tait

Rope-grown mussels producer Shetland Mussels has secured a multimillion-pound finance package to help double production.

The business, which already supply more than 900 tonnes of mussels to restaurants, wholesalers and retailers across UK every year, has spent part of the money on specialised new production equipment.

It is expected to more than double the amount of mussels Shetland can harvest annually to 2,400 tonnes by 2020.

Shetland Mussels – a family business owned by father and sons Lollie, Richard and Michael Tait – plans to add three employees to its 17-strong workforce.

“Upon consulting with Clydesdale Bank, we immediately found that they understood our business model and growth aspirations,” Richard Tait said.

“The support and commitment that the bank has provided will enable Shetland Mussels to fully action its development plan by 2020.”

Graeme Johnston, relationship manager of commercial banking at Clydesdale Bank, added: “Richard and his team have shown great passion and determination to build this fantastic success story and our support reflects their commitment and entrepreneurial spirit.”

Shetland Mussels is accredited by the Marine Stewardship Council, and forms a part of the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group, which distributes the business’ annual harvest.