Independent companies are finding new and inventive ways to keep it business as usual during the Covid-19 outbreak.

As part of our Backing Local Business campaign, the Guardian is shining a spotlight on the firms that are innovating to survive the coronavirus crisis.

A FAMILY business in Winsford is playing its part in tackling Covid-19 by supplying vital personal protective equipment (PPE).

Indigo Promotions usually supplies promotional merchandise, including branded personal care items such as hand sanitiser.

But with the PPE supply chain under strain, clients asked Indigo if it could step in.

The firm has responded by providing PPE for frontline workers – including more than one million face masks for Cheshire East and West councils – and has additional stock available for businesses and individuals.

Emily Johnson-Hicks, sales director, said: "We have been working tirelessly with both local and far flung manufacturers in order to dramatically increase production and availability of a wide range of items.

"All our PPE items conform to the required regulations as you would expect, and making factory inspections and obtaining the correct certification has been fundamental for us.

"Whilst we are proud to be doing our bit during this very challenging climate, ensuring we adhere to Government guidelines in keeping everyone safe remains the cornerstone of our operations with the majority of our workforce working remotely."

Indigo, which celebrates 20 years in business this year, is expecting demand for PPE to rise again now that workplaces have begun to reopen.

The firm says it is ready to meet the challenge, with face masks and hand sanitiser available to buy online from the past week.

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Steve Johnson, managing director, added: "For the past 20 years Indigo has been proud to have supported the NHS, emergency services, councils, charities and businesses alike across the country with branded merchandise of all kinds.

"Right now our focus remains pointed towards supporting the PPE supply chain.

"We continue to be hugely appreciative of the NHS and all frontline workers, our thoughts and prayers are with them and with all those who are bereft and facing adversity at this time."

See indigo-promotions.co.uk

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