International expansion can introduce significant FX exposure and cash flow complexity. This case study explores how Marex supported a leading horticulture supplier in strengthening financial resilience through a combined FX and commercial finance strategy.
Overview
Founded in the early 2000s, this UK-based horticulture supplier has grown into a market leader in its sector, offering a wide range of products and expert advice to both consumers and professionals.
Following a major acquisition in late 2022, the company faced new challenges as it expanded internationally, including increased exposure to currency fluctuations and seasonal cash flow pressures.
Client challenges and FX exposure
- From local to global
Before the acquisition, the business rarely dealt in foreign currencies and had no FX strategy in place
- International growth, rising currency risk
Post-acquisition, over 70% of goods were sourced from overseas, creating significant FX exposure and impacting forward planning
- Volatility threatened margins
Initially reliant on spot buying, the company soon realised that margins and budgeting capabilities were at risk without a structured approach
- Seasonal cash flow pressures
Rapid growth and seasonal demand cycles highlighted the need for upfront capital and a trade finance facility to support stock purchases and supplier commitments
“When you are selling the product with 70% coming from cross-border and there are thousands of transactions you are doing all the time, you cannot rely on spot buying.”CFO Horticulture Supplier, UK
FX strategy and proposed solution
The company partnered with Marex to secure a tailored FX strategy and, just as importantly, a commercial finance facility that addressed seasonal cash flow pressures.
Marex took time to understand the business’s evolving model and international sourcing challenges, quickly identifying the pressure points that could impact margins and liquidity. With this insight, Marex implemented a dual solution designed to provide stability and confidence:
- Structured FX strategy
A clear framework for managing currency exposure and aligning decisions with budget goals
- Commercial finance facility
Integrated with the FX approach to improve buying power and support stock purchases ahead of seasonal peaks
- Technology integration
Leveraging Marex’s proprietary platform, MIRA, for real-time risk profiling and reporting, enabling proactive planning and control.
Results and outcomes
The combined solution delivered immediate and long-term benefits, transforming financial resilience and operational flexibility:
- Margin stability
Secured better currency rates aligned with budget goals
- Operational improvements
Reduced daily pressures on the finance team, freeing capacity for strategic priorities
- Enhanced purchasing power
Strengthened supplier relationships and enabled proactive buying ahead of seasonal demand
- Boardroom confidence
Transparent reporting improved oversight and supported confident decision-making
“’I’m enjoying working with Marex. I don’t have to worry about my FX rates or anything because I know I’m covered.“CFO Horticulture Supplier, UK
Key takeaways
- Beyond the numbers
Marex’s approach delivered immediate financial impact alongside broader operational improvements, influencing company-wide performance
- Planning with precision
Hedging future FX exposure gave the business greater control over budgeting and reduced vulnerability to currency fluctuations
- Confidence in control
A proactive FX strategy eased day-to-day pressures on the finance team, allowing them to focus on strategic priorities
- Stronger supplier relations
The commercial finance facility enabled the company to negotiate better terms, secure discounts, and build stock ahead of peak periods
- Clarity at the top
Transparent, real-time reporting improved board-level oversight and strengthened stakeholder confidence
Conclusion
By combining a structured FX strategy with a tailored commercial finance facility, Marex helped this fast-growing horticulture supplier navigate the complexities of international expansion with confidence.
The integrated solution not only stabilised margins and improved liquidity but also empowered the leadership team with clarity and control. As the business continues to scale globally, these measures have laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth and long-term resilience.
“’The reporting is much cleaner and clearer… everything is spot on, making audits easy. I’ve already recommended Marex to many people.“CFO Horticulture Supplier, UK
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