Barclays backs Scottish leisure operator Innoflate to support UK expansion

Barclays has agreed a funding package to support Livingston-headquartered leisure operator Innoflate in the next phase of its growth across the UK.

The deal marks a new relationship with Barclays and will support the business in investing in new sites as it continues to scale.

Best known for its giant inflatable parks, Innoflate operates a growing portfolio of leisure venues, offering experience-led activities for families and communities.

With existing sites in Aberdeen, Cumbernauld, Dundee, Inverness, Livingston and Newport, Innoflate has already established a significant presence across Scotland and continues to grow its UK footprint as demand for accessible, in-person leisure experiences remains strong across the UK.

The next phase of expansion is expected to drive further job creation, alongside investment in new locations that will bring additional leisure provision and employment opportunities to communities across the UK.

The investment comes at a time of growing confidence across the UK’s hospitality and leisure sector. Barclays’ latest Hospitality & Leisure report shows that more than half of businesses are planning to expand over the next three years.

The report also highlights that demand for experiences is increasing at a faster rate than for physical products, with consumers continuing to prioritise spending on leisure and events despite wider economic pressures.

Against this backdrop, operators like Innoflate are continuing to invest in new sites and formats to meet evolving customer expectations and capture growth opportunities across the sector.

Darren Margach, CEO of Innoflate said, “This support provides a strong platform for the next stage of our growth, allowing us to continue investing in new locations and creating even more fun, exciting, and memorable experiences for our customers and communities.”

Alan Duff, Business Banking Relationship Director, Scotland at Barclays said, “Innoflate is a great example of a Scottish-headquartered business investing for growth in a sector that continues to evolve rapidly.

“Across hospitality and leisure, we’re seeing businesses focus on experience-led offerings and investing to meet changing consumer expectations. Our role is to support businesses like Innoflate with the flexibility they need to grow and build for the long term.”

Barclays continues to support businesses across Scotland and the UK, committing £22 billion through its Business Prosperity Fund providing the funding and expertise needed to help firms invest, scale and navigate changing market conditions.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Saltire Sentinel’s editorial stance.