ABOUT: Located in Blackburn, the company manufactures bespoke furniture and fittings. It was established in 2013 and began targeting the hotel and leisure industry, securing clients including Hoxton, Hilton Hotels, IHG and Luxury Lodge Estates. On engaging with Boost, current turnover was £2.2m and the firm employed 28 members of staff.
BOOST SUPPORT: In early 2019, the firm was matched with Ian Cooke, one of Boost’s Business Relationship Managers, employed by Growth Lancashire. Meeting with the business for a robust #growthconversation, Ian, an experienced campaigner in the manufacturing sector, was able to broker support aimed at unlocking current barriers to growth. This included the need to improve production processes and efficiency, invest in employee development, and reduce the company’s carbon footprint.
A number of opportunities were identified, and with ongoing support from Boost, the firm continues to receive and seek support from a range of partners, including:
- Boost Bespoke Programme
- Chamber of Commerce Low Carbon Programme
- Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council – Assistance to Industry scheme
- Specialist manufacturing support via Made Smarter and the Lancashire Manufacturing Growth Fund
OUTCOMES: Like many businesses, the company has been negatively affected by the Coronavirus pandemic. However, commenting on their involvement with Boost, Danny Ambler, Director of Fuse Contract Furniture, said:
“The support really encouraged us to take a step back from the business and focus on strategy and growth. The planning tools provided are limitless in their scope to help us grow the business and the information on grant funding and links to helpful business contacts is fantastic.”