Hydrogen generator firm raises £3m to boost uptake of green energy

Suiso – a Rotherham company developing an innovative hydrogen generator that could boost uptake of green energy – has raised £3m from NPIF – Mercia Equity Finance, which is managed by Mercia Ventures and part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, and Mercia’s EIS funds.

The company plans to create generators the size of shipping containers that could be placed on site to power factories, hospitals, and warehouses or at filling stations to fuel hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Producing hydrogen where it is needed eliminates the high costs involved in distribution from a large, centralised plant, which has been one of the key barriers to adoption.  It also allows businesses that want to decarbonise their operation to start much sooner than waiting for large-scale hydrogen plants to be built.

Suiso’s process produces low-cost, low-carbon or zero-carbon energy. It uses a novel microwave technology to extract hydrogen from natural gas or biogas, while capturing the carbon in the form of carbon black, a valuable byproduct that can be used to make tyres, batteries and inks. As existing methods of carbon black production create high levels of emissions, Suiso’s technology can help decarbonise these industries too.

A study by the Department of Business, Energy & Industry Strategy (BEIS) confirmed that, for many key applications, Suiso’s technology is lower cost and produces lower emissions than existing production methods such as grid-powered electrolysis, and 97% lower than steam methane reforming, making it one of the greenest forms of hydrogen available.  It also uses 80% less electrical energy than electrolysis, therefore putting less stress on the grid network.

Suiso was founded by engineer and financier Stuart McKnight and serial entrepreneur Dr SB Cha, whose father invented Suiso’s microwave technology. The company was one of the winners of the BEIS Low Carbon H2 Supply scheme in 2023.

The latest investment will enable it to scale up its technology and begin a pilot project. Ultimately it aims to produce generators that can produce 1,000 kg of hydrogen a day – equivalent to 1.6 MW of energy and enough to fuel 50 20-tonne trucks. The company, which currently employs five staff, expects to create seven new jobs in the next six months.

Stuart McKnight, CEO of Suiso, said: “Hydrogen is rapidly emerging as a sustainable way to decarbonise the economy, but cost, availability and other practical issues have held back its use. Our technology offers a way to overcome these and provide clean, low-cost power on site. For some organisations, Suiso’s on site hydrogen generation may be the only realistic ‘green’ option – for example, energy-intensive industrial applications such as large boilers or furnaces, heavy lifting gear or HGV and truck refuelling. This investment will help us move to the next stage on our journey to bring it to market.”

Ashwin Kumaraswamy, Investment Director with Mercia Ventures, added: Suiso has found a way to decarbonise natural and biogas to produce ‘greener’ hydrogen than many current methods of production including grid powered electrolysis, and a zero-emission form of carbon black which is a valuable product in itself. This technology could make hydrogen a viable option for many businesses and drive rapid uptake. With growing global demand for clean energy, we are confident that Suiso will have many opportunities ahead.”

Keira Shepperson, Director, British Business Bank said: “Suiso’s dedication to the use of greener and cleaner energy showcases it as a future-focused business, committed to helping the country meet its net-zero targets.  As it continues to prosper, we look forward to supporting it in its growth journey. The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund remains dedicated to investing in innovative businesses, and particularly those striving towards a greener future.”

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

Enterprise Ventures Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 183363). EV Business Loans Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 443560).

Editors Notes

NPIF helping locals ‘Eat Fresh’ following £40,000 Investment

Locally Owned Ltd has received a £40,000 investment from NPIF River & GC Microfinance, which River Capital manages in partnership with GC Business Finance (GCBF) as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

The loan will enable the business to expand its food and beverage operations and help to create up to eight new job opportunities in the Liverpool City Region.

Locally Owned Ltd, a current Subway franchisee, is gearing up to reinvigorate a new location in Fazakerley. The investment from River Capital and Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund will allow the business to secure the franchise for this outlet, bringing back the fresh flavours and further choice of Subway to the local area.

Now aiming to reopen and relaunch the previously shuttered store, Locally Owned Ltd will provide a boost to the local food scene with itscommitment and dedication to quality. Under the Subway brand and with the eight new positions on the horizon, the investment is set to nurture the growth of the business.

With the leadership of experienced entrepreneur Michael Peasgood, the business is now set to increase its success across Liverpool, building on its existing reputation as a Subway franchisee and with Fazakerley complementing their existing store in Ormskirk, Michael and his team are truly ensuring the people of Liverpool can ‘Eat Fresh’.

Andy Jones, Investment Manager at River Capital, said “We are thrilled to fuel Locally Owned Ltd’s continued growth through this investment and support. This loan isn’t just about reopening a store; it’s empowering a local business to ensure a global favourite is again available in this part of the City Region, while fuelling the local economy with fresh opportunities. We hope to build on this relationship with Michael and be his funding partner as he embarks on his growth journey to add further Subway stores to his portfolio.”

Michael Peasgood, Director of Locally Owned Ltd said “We’re incredibly grateful to both River Capital and the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund as we embark on adding a further store to our Ormskirk location. By increasing our presence, we are not only ensuring further success for ourselves but can provide more options to our communities while creating  new jobs.

Debbie Sorby, Senior Manager, British Business Bank said: “NPIF has always proudly backed local businesses like Locally Owned Ltd, helping to boost business growth one step at a time. Investments like this aren’t just about expanding business operations; it’s about revitalising the local community. By bringing back fresh flavours to Fazakerley, Locally Owned Ltd is not only refreshing the community’s food scene but also creating valuable job opportunities. This investment is a testament to our dedication to nurturing local businesses and ensuring that the local economy thrives.”

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

The MSIF group of funds are managed by River Capital Management Ltd which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the course of investment business. Financial Conduct Authority Registration Number is 180891.

BFS Funding Managers Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a Small Authorised UK AIFM under firm reference number 608682.

Editors Notes

 

NPIF – FW Capital delivers £400 million impact on Northern businesses, creating close to 5000 jobs

Approaching 450 businesses across the North of England have benefitted from investments of £173 million from regional fund manager FW Capital, through its delivery of NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance, which is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

The investments have attracted £230 million co-investment from the private sector,  totalling an impact of over £400m on the Northern economy.

Since the fund was launched in 2017, the funding has led to the creation and safeguarding of almost 5000 jobs. This has helped Northern firms to build skilled teams and create new products and services.

2020/21 proved to be the most active year, with 115 businesses securing £36 million of funding through the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme.

Key sectors to secure investments from NPIF-FW Capital include manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, construction and firms in the scientific and technical advances industry.

Mike Owen, Chief Executive at FW Capital said: “Access to finance is critical to stimulating business growth, innovation, and job creation, and it’s been rewarding to see how our investments have made a real difference to SMEs across the North. Demand for alternative finance was such that our initial allocation of £102m in 2017 was increased to £173m over the course of the fund enabling us to support more businesses and reach higher levels of job creation and growth. We’ve supported a variety of firms across the North and enjoyed working with the team at the British Business Bank to deliver valuable finance to high growth companies.”

Keira Shepperson, Director, British Business Bank said “FW Capital reaching a milestone of delivering £400 million impact to businesses across the North demonstrates our commitment to driving sustainable economic growth. With the upcoming launch of NPIF II, we’re looking forward to continuing this legacy, providing the springboard for businesses across the region to prosper.”

NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance provided loans in the NPIF region with a focus on Cumbria, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside and the Tees Valley.

The current Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

In total across all funds, the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund has invested over £456m across 1823 deals  since its launch in 2017. These deals have attracted an additional £670m of investment from the private sector, giving a combined value facilitated by NPIF of over £1bn.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

FW Capital Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a small authorised UK Alternative Investment Fund Manager under firm reference number 506719.

Editors Notes

 

 

 

Merseyside chocolate coating machine manufacturer treble sales

A Merseyside chocolate machine maker is focused on growth after trebling its sales in the last year. It has secured funding to support future expansion from NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance, which is managed by FW Capital and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

DTG Finn is the brand of DT&G Engineering Ltd and is recognised globally for its manufacturing of chocolate coating and polishing machines, along with turnkey solutions. This is the third round of funding that FW Capital has given to DT&G Engineering, having previously provided funding in 2015 and then from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund in 2018. This latest working capital boost is helping meet increased demand for DTG Finn’s chocolate coating equipment worldwide and has supported the addition of an apprentice to the team.  The company plans to double sales in the next 12 months.

Formed in 1962 in a small workshop in Birkenhead, the Wirral manufacturer is responsible for the coating on many products made by international chocolate producers. It exports its chocolate equipment across the world and was previously recognised by the late Queen for its services to international trade.

Lyn Pitt, Managing Director at DT&G Engineering said: “Our reputation for excellence in the design, manufacture and supply of confectionery equipment is second to none and this is reflected in our increased sales activity.  The ‘Finn’ name is recognised as the most efficient chocolate coating and polishing machines for dragée production which creates bite size confectionary with hard outer shells. We export worldwide and pride ourselves on our dedication to all our UK and overseas clients. Our focus is on the future and the investment from NPIF &  FW Capital helps our cashflow needs and expansion activities as we look to double sales this year. I’m delighted we’ve been able to expand our workforce and welcome an apprentice, Adrian Mois, through the MTC, to the team. The support from Lewis McMullin at FW Capital has been great. I like the personal relationship approach that Lewis provides us, we’re not just a number because Lewis takes the time to really understand our ambitions and is always there when I need to contact him.”

Lewis McMullin, Portfolio Executive Assistant at FW Capital said: “DT&G Engineering is a fantastic business that is going from strength to strength and leading the way in innovation and the development of confectionery technology. Operating in a niche market the team has a clear pedigree of excellence.  The investment provides valuable working capital to support the recruitment of an additional member of staff and the company’s expansion plans moving forward.”

Debbie Sorby, Senior Manager, British Business Bank said: “NPIF investments such as this highlights the important role of external finance on businesses in the North. By supporting businesses like DTG with the funds to meet increased demand, nurture new talent  and take the next steps to fulfil its growth plans, we are creating a more prosperous regional economy for the future.”

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

FW Capital Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a small authorised UK Alternative Investment Fund Manager under firm reference number 506719.

Editors Notes

 

NPIF investment supports eco-friendly jeweller with sustainable growth

Robinvalley Limited, an eco-conscious jewellery business has received a game-changing £50,000 investment from NPIF – River & GC Microfinance, which River Capital manages in partnership with GC Business Finance (GCBF) as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF). The funding fuels the sustainable brand’s rapid expansion as demand for its nature-inspired designs soars.

Robin Valley is on a mission to revolutionise jewellery with its sleek wood creations, including earrings, keychains, and accessories from natural wood materials and incorporating hand-painted motifs like flowers and animals. Its earth-friendly products have won over prestigious outlets across the UK, including museums, galleries, London Zoo and Merlin Entertainments and now boasts 1200 unique designs.

The investment has allowed Robin Valley to power up production to meet increasing demand through the brand’s prominent attendance at key trade shows, increased marketing, and the creation of up to five new jobs.

As a champion for small businesses, River Capital is dedicated to propelling Liverpool entrepreneurs to new heights and the strategic funding from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund empowers innovators like Robin Valley to expand, create jobs and develop economic prosperity.

Sue Chambers, Investment Manager at River Capital, said: “We are thrilled to fuel the significant rise of Robin Valley. This trail-blazing company embodies Liverpool’s flourishing spirit of creativity and innovation. Its sustainable ethos certainly sets it apart from other jewellers and our loan will help take Robin Valley to the next level as it cements itself as a beloved and renowned brand.”

Wanchong Chen, Robin Valley’s Managing Director, said: “We are ecstatic that River Capital believes in our mission to revolutionise jewellery sustainably. Their game-changing loan arrives at an ideal moment, allowing us to meet demand and spread our message and products to a global market.”

Debbie Sorby, Senior Manager, British Business Bank said: “NPIF investment is crucial to support and enable enterprising companies like Robin Valley to scale up their ventures. With ambitious entrepreneurs like Wanchong Chen creating unique products and exciting new jobs opportunities within the local economy, we are one step closer to powering future economic growth across the region as a whole.”

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

The MSIF group of funds are managed by River Capital Management Ltd which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the course of investment business. Financial Conduct Authority Registration Number is 180891.

BFS Funding Managers Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a Small Authorised UK AIFM under firm reference number 608682.

Editors Notes

 

Cell battery specialist set for substantial growth following funding injection from NPIF

Manchester-based battery specialist, Cellerate, has received an £100,000 loan from NPIF – River & GC Microfinance, which GC Business Finance (GCBF) manages in partnership with River Capital as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF).

Incorporated in 2020 by Dr. Richard Fields, Cellerate is a global leader in manufacturing and developing advanced automated systems for battery research and technology scale-up. It specialises in engineering solutions that accelerate the commercialisation of new energy storage technologies to foster a more sustainable future.

Dr. Fields obtained a PhD in Material Science from The University of Surrey and has spent eleven years designing and manufacturing batteries and supercapacitors. It was whilst working at the National Graphene Institute, based in the University of Manchester, that he recognised the industry-wide frustration around building battery test cells manually, which ultimately leads to human error in the datasets.

Through his work, Dr. Fields has solved a series of key technical problems around battery cell assembly and sealing, which has allowed Cellerate to develop an automated battery test cell manufacturing system. This eliminates the industry-wide issue of human error within test cell manufacturing. The system also enables new data streams for improving battery technology and can produce an 80 per cent staff time saving in comparison to traditional methods.

Cellerate now operates across the Americas, Europe and Asia and has already become a go to partner for institutions working on advanced energy storage solutions.

The new funding injection from NPIF will help Cellerate to grow as it moves into a larger unit within its existing premises, along with fitting out this new unit with advanced battery manufacturing equipment.

With the expansion in its facility size, Cellerate will be able to match production demands and continue developing next generation battery technologies, providing industry leading solutions.

Dr. Richard Fields, Founder of Cellerate, said: “The journey Cellerate has been on in just three years is incredible. We are already an industry leader in advanced energy storage solutions and want to continue making a positive impact on the industry through our solutions. It has been great to use my research to positively impact corporations, government bodies, and academic institutions. As we move into our new premises following the funding from NPIF, I look forward to growing the business further and entering this new chapter in Cellerate’s growth journey.”

Andy Nichols, senior loan manager at GC Business Finance, added: “As a Manchester-based business it is exciting to see the impact Cellerate is already having on the industry. Manchester was home to the industrial revolution, so it is great to continue this legacy and support another innovative manufacturing business.

“Becoming a global leader in the battery cell industry within just four years, the success Cellerate has already achieved is incredible. It has been a pleasure to work with Dr. Richard and I look forward to seeing the continued success Cellerate will have.”

Debbie Sorby, Senior Manager at the British Business Bank, said: “The industry-wide success Cellerate has achieved displays the strength of business innovation we have in the North West. Funding from NPIF gives Northern businesses like Cellerate the momentum to continue growing and making an impact in their industry. Delivering regionally focused support throughout the North boosts economic prosperity and allows businesses to flourish. I look forward to seeing the continued success of Cellerate as they continue to bring innovative solutions to the cell battery industry.”

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

The MSIF group of funds are managed by River Capital Management Ltd which is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the course of investment business. Financial Conduct Authority Registration Number is 180891.

BFS Funding Managers Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a Small Authorised UK AIFM under firm reference number 608682.

Editors Notes

Funding boost for rail freight app that aims to take traffic off the roads

The company behind an app that aims to move freight traffic off the roads and on to the rail network has secured a £150,000 loan from NPIF – Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia and part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

RailX is encouraging businesses to take a more sustainable approach to their logistics needs by making use of spare capacity on the rail network. Its app RailX – described as a ‘Trainline for rail freight’ – makes it easy to book rail and associated services including ‘first and final mile’ road deliveries.

RailX is currently focused on serving Yorkshire businesses and the freight forwarders who serve them and offers a full ‘port to door’ service. The funding will enable it to continue to grow and expand its reach to target firms outside of Yorkshire, further develop its app and cope with the growing demand for its services.

RailX was developed after Steve Freeman, the former Managing Director of Doncaster’s rail terminal iPort Rail, and Rail Consultant Paul Bathgate recognised that commercial train services typically run at least 25% below capacity. They joined forces with digital expert Tom Ciullo and finance director Ian Waring to launch the app in November last year. The company, which  currently has a seven-strong team including five directors and two employees, expects to create six new roles in the year ahead.

Paul Bathgate said: “Around 90 per cent of UK freight is moved by road, which means that on any given day there are the equivalent of 20 empty trains running on the rail network. Part of the problem is that it is often difficult for smaller companies, or those unable to contract large volumes, to access and book space on trains. Our easy-to-use app takes the pain out of buying rail freight.

“Per container, rail uses on average 76 per cent less carbon than road haulage. As it requires only one driver for up to 40 containers, it is far less labour intensive and can be cheaper and more reliable. By optimising the existing rail capacity, we can start to bring down costs, increase demand and encourage the modal shift to more sustainable transport solutions.”

Andy Tyas of Mercia Debt added: “Rail freight offers the potential to save over 30,000 tonnes of carbon a year, and to reduce the amount of heavy goods traffic on the road. RailX could play a key role in the transition to more sustainable transport. The team chose to pioneer their service in Yorkshire, building on their existing relationships in the region, and also the fact that an estimated 42% of rail freight moves through or stops in the county. With demand growing steadily, this funding will enable the company to begin its expansion across the Yorkshire region and the wider UK.”

Keira Shepperson, Investment Director at the British Business Bank, said: “We’re proud to support innovative businesses like RailX as it embarks on its growth journey. The Fund has been a catalyst for RailX’s business operations, and it is now prepared to expand its market reach beyond Yorkshire. This investment not only drives innovation in the business but creates valuable employment opportunities, underscoring our commitment to fostering economic prosperity in Yorkshire and beyond.”

Andy McKenna, Access to Finance Advisor for the Sheffield City Region Growth Hub, provided fundraising advice to the company.

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

Enterprise Ventures Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 183363). EV Business Loans Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 443560).

Editors Notes

NPIF funding boost helps Lankem to focus on sustainability

Greater Manchester specialist manufacturer Lankem has boosted its environmental commitments following a sixfigure investment to support the development of a next generation bio-based surfactant.

Financial backing has been secured from NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance, which is managed by FW Capital and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment. The six-figure loan is supporting the launch of the new BioLoop range together with the creation of three new jobs.

Lankem was founded in 1999 and is a rapidly expanding business located in Dukinfield. It supplies industrial surfactant products such as coatings, emulsion polymerisation, agrochemicals, textiles, industrial cleaning oils and lubricants. Recently the firm has focused on the development of a range of novel bio-based surfactants. The funding is supporting the introduction of this new range of bio-based surfactants containing components that come from renewable sources. Unlike many bio-based surfactants, these products offer excellent surfactant properties and can be used as more environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional synthetic non-ionics, such as alcohol ethoxylates. Unlike palm-based surfactants, the BioLoop range contains soybean oil which is considered to be a great sustainable source.

Sean Hodgkinson, Director at Lankem explains: “Sustainable products from renewable sources have been around for many years but the majority have very limited functionality in terms of performance compared to synthetic countertypes. Our remit was to develop a range of bio-based products that offer comparable performance against the synthetic products across a wide range of applications. This product is plant based which has huge benefits to the planet but is also ultra mild so can be used in personal care and cosmetics. This is the first of its type in the world and is made from ‘new’ carbon. We’ve been busy manufacturing the BioLoop product over the last 18 months. The funding from FW Capital is supporting the development of BioLoop and our launch to market. This is a very exciting time for everyone at Lankem.”

Laura Rees, Senior Investment Executive at FW Capital added: “The development of innovative products is critical for the future and BioLoop is a very exciting one that delivers on sustainability, without compromising on performance. I’m thrilled to support Lankem with the growth and launch of their BioLoop product. This is a real game changer for the surfactant industry.“

Debbie Sorby, Senior Manager, the British Business Band said: “Investments like this play a pivotal role in propelling businesses like Lankem towards their sustainability goals and the next stage of growth. NPIF funding not only fuels innovation but also plays a vital role in fostering local job creation, allowing businesses to take a step towards a greener and more prosperous future.”

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

FW Capital Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a small authorised UK Alternative Investment Fund Manager under firm reference number 506719.

Editors Notes

 

 

Host & Stay expands with six figure investment

One of the UK’s largest independent holiday home management firm’s is enjoying fast growth with plans to create new jobs across the North East. 

Based in Skelton-in-Cleveland, Host & Stay Group has received a six-figure loan to support its rapid growth. The funding from NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance, which is managed by FW Capital and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund is helping the firm to invest in its structure and staff as part of its expansion strategy. It looks to create 50 new roles in the next 12-18months.  

Host & Stay prides itself on making it more affordable for holiday owners to manage and rent out their properties, while enjoying a greater return on investment. Host & Stay was founded by the Smith family in 2018. Today the business is a leading independent name in the holiday home and serviced accommodation market. 

Dale Smith, CEO of Host & Stay, said: “The whole ethos of Host & Stay is to help more holiday homeowners unlock the potential in their properties. This will ultimately lead to increased revenue for our holiday homeowners, and with less hassle due to our end-to-end managed service. We’ve experienced an impressive growth trajectory having grown from our first property in 2017 to today having over 1000 properties on our books. We’re now looking to expand the business further through organic growth and acquisitions and this funding is instrumental in assisting this.   

We were introduced to Alex Gent at FW Capital by James Clinghan from TBP who works alongside our accountant James Dale of Anderson Barrowcliff.   Alex recognised our growth ambitions and was able to offer an investment proposition that supports our exciting strategic growth plan which will enhance our service offering and boost the local economy with new jobs.” 

Alex Gent, Senior Investment Executive at FW Capital added: “Host & Stay has enjoyed impressive growth since its inception and is today a multi-million-pound turnover business.  I’m thrilled to be part of their growth journey and make a difference to the future success of the company. Their portfolio of holiday homes and apartments extends across the UK from the Yorkshire Dales, to North Yorkshire, the North East, Wales, the South West, Kent and Sussex, and Liverpool.” 

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank. 

FW Capital Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a small authorised UK Alternative Investment Fund Manager under firm reference number 506719.

Editors Notes

  

North East firm expands with £500K investment

A North East based interior design, new build cleaning, contract and commercial flooring specialist is poised to expand its services into Yorkshire after receiving a £500K investment from NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance, which is managed by FW Capital and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

Headquartered in a 45,000 sq ft premises in Prudhoe, Inside Contracts specialise in transforming commercial spaces and creating luxury residential projects for a range of UK housebuilders. The business was formed in 2017 and today operates with four divisions focused on contract flooring, commercial flooring, interior design, and commercial cleaning.

The loan from FW Capital is being used to help Inside Contracts Group’s expansion into Yorkshire to service housebuilders in the region and support the creation of 37 new jobs in the area. Alex Gent from FW Capital was introduced to the team at Inside Contracts Group by Steven Foley at CCBS.

John Spreadbury Chief Executive at Inside Contracts Group said: “We are thrilled with the growth enjoyed by the business thanks to increased sales across our contract and commercial divisions. This success has led us to expand our services into Yorkshire. The investment from NPIF – FW Capital has been instrumental in helping us to bring our growth strategy to life and we’re looking forward to expanding our team and working with housebuilders and commercial clients across Yorkshire.”

Gordon Hodgson Managing Director of the flooring division at Inside Contracts Group said: ”I am delighted that the investment allows us to strengthen our presence in the Yorkshire and Teesside region. This will allow for further substantial growth in this region and cement our partnerships with our builder clients. Our new facility will give us the opportunity to build and grow our team and we are very excited with this prospect.”

Alex Gent, Senior Investment Executive at FW Capital added: “Inside Contracts Group is a group of companies offering flooring, cleaning and interior design solutions to housebuilders with a focus on quality and right-first-time service. Their growth journey has now led them to move into the Yorkshire market which is a significant step forward for their future success. I am sure their services will be well received across the region. It’s great to be able to provide this funding to help John and his team realise their growth ambitions, and to support investment in the NPIF region.”

NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance can provide loans in the NPIF region with a focus on Cumbria, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside and the Tees Valley.

The current NPIF investment phase has now completed with the British Business Bank launching the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II in March 2024.

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

FW Capital Limited is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a small authorised UK Alternative Investment Fund Manager under firm reference number 506719.

Editors Notes