Littlefair’s Wood Finishing Products, a specialist in environmentally-friendly wood stains, has secured significant funding to fuel its growth initiatives. The family-owned company is set to expand its workforce and production capabilities to meet rising demand in the UK and USA.
Investment to Propel Growth
Littlefair’s Wood Finishing Products has secured a notable investment from the £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, marking a major milestone for the Lancashire-based company. This funding will be strategically deployed to enhance workforce and production capabilities at the Blackburn facility, enabling the company to meet increasing demand in both the domestic and international markets. As the firm’s director, Rob Littlefair, expressed, this investment represents a significant step towards realising their full potential.
A Focus on Sustainability
Founded in 2016, Littlefair’s has carved a niche by manufacturing wood finishing products that are both high-quality and environmentally friendly. The company offers a water-based alternative to conventional solvent-based wood stains, which aligns with growing consumer preferences for sustainable products. The recent funding will further support the company’s commitment to sustainability by expanding its production capacity and facilitating the sourcing of eco-friendly raw materials.
Strategic Market Expansion
The company is not only focused on the UK market but has also successfully launched its products in the USA, where it has established a strong presence through its Amazon storefront. This transatlantic expansion is expected to accelerate with the new investment, leveraging the brand’s reputation for quality and eco-consciousness to tap into the burgeoning demand for sustainable wood finishing products.
Support from the NPIF II
The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II aims to support small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that face challenges in accessing traditional finance. Through the NPIF II’s Smaller Loans scheme, Littlefair’s secured £75,000 to fuel its growth ambitions. The fund, managed by GC Business Finance and River Capital, provides crucial financial support ranging from £25,000 to £5 million, aiding businesses in scaling their operations when traditional financing is unavailable.
A Testimony to British Craftsmanship
According to Andy Nichols from GC Business Finance, Littlefair’s exemplifies a small business achieving substantial success while maintaining a focus on sustainability and craftsmanship. Littlefair’s products are proudly British, hand-manufactured, and reflect a dedication to high standards and environmental consideration. This commitment has helped the company gain a foothold in competitive international markets, as highlighted by Nichols.
Overcoming Financial Barriers
Rob Littlefair highlighted the challenges faced when accessing alternative finance streams. The introduction to NPIF II via Boost Lancashire proved pivotal, guiding the company through the complex funding application process. This partnership not only provided the necessary capital but also opened doors to opportunities previously out of reach, affirming the fund’s role as a catalyst for business growth.
Encouragement for Other SMEs
Simon Cunnington of the British Business Bank noted that Littlefair’s achievement with NPIF II serves as an inspiration for other ambitious SMEs. By illustrating that sustainable growth is achievable with the right financial support, it encourages other business owners to explore the fund as a resource for growth. This success story underscores the potential within the North of England’s SME sector.
The investment from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II is poised to drive Littlefair’s continued growth and innovation in the sustainable wood finishing market. Through strategic market expansion and a commitment to quality craftsmanship, the company is well-positioned for future success.
