Innovative Equipment Developed Thanks To Growth Hub

Family-run firm, Plastech Weatherseals Ltd, has operated at its Longford base for more than two decades. The Blackhorse Lane-based business has a core focus of manufacturing plastic extrusions for windows and doors.

Run by managing director, Bob Whelan, the company employs a total of ten people from around the local area.

The Plan
Plastech wanted to expand the business’s objective by developing an innovative irrigation pump and hose system for countries with harsh weather conditions. But to do so the company needed to expand its Longford factory and also gain access to funding for new equipment and manufacturing operations.

The firm was refused planning permission for the expansion a number of times, so sought out advice and support on the issue, as well as where to access funding. Bob turned to the CWLEP Growth Hub, which offers specialist advice and help to companies in the region. Jaymie Thakordas, business mentor and account manager, worked with the team to find the right funding and Growth Hub planning specialist, Bill Blincoe, was drafted in to navigate the difficulties surrounding the planning problems.

Bob Whelan said: “We had all these plans for the new irrigation system and expanding the factory, but we needed help to push them forward. “Jaymie and Bill came on board and helped us work on the application processes for both the funding and planning permission. “They were both able to give us information and support to make sure that these projects, which are linked to each other, were able to move forward to build on the company’s future.”

The Results

As a result of the support provided by the Growth Hub, Plastech’s expansion plans have been approved by Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council. Not only that, the company was also awarded an investment grant under the Business Support Programme funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) to help assist with the purchase of tooling equipment. This means that everything is in place for Plastech to move forward with its work developing the new irrigation pump and hose system. The system has a number of advantages over existing equipment as it is cost effective to manufacture and is also extremely reliable. Already a number of countries have expressed interest in the product including Uganda, Algeria, Morocco, Australia and more.

Bob said: “The work that the Growth Hub has done for Plastech has been phenomenal and invaluable. “They were there every step of the way and we could not have done this without the guidance that they offered. “Thanks to the Growth Hub, and Jaymie and Bill in particular, we have the planning permission and funding in place. “We are still testing the irrigation system, but there are a number of countries that are already very interested. “We are planning a soft launch for the product and then we are hoping the project will build from there.” “I would definitely recommend that any business in need of help get in touch with the CWLEP Growth Hub to find out what the team can do for them.” For further information about Plastech Weatherseals Ltd and its work visit www.plastechweatherseals.co.uk.

Jaymie Thakordas Business mentor and account manager “As Plastech moves forward, the Growth Hub will be there to offer as much assistance as needed.” “That is something that is important to us, we don’t just help with the one issue and move on, we make sure that we are available for all the businesses that we support.”

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Client testimonials

Without the Growth Hubs help and assistance, we would never have been able to increase our sales & output and also grow our local business. With this help in purchasing new equipment we have expanded our operations and gained a new and increased customer base.

Nuneaton Roof Truss,

Over the past few years, Armstrongs has built up a fantastic relationship with Gary Thyeson from the Growth Hub. His advice on grants and funding has been really valuable to both Armstrongs and some of our clients. His knowledge of local business support has been helpful in signposting us to relevant support agencies as required. We look forward to working with Laura Delahunty moving forwards.

Armstrongs Accountancy LTD,

In the short time since first engaging with the Warwickshire Growth Hub we feel that Laura has understood our vision and has been so very supportive in linking us to the specialist teams who are now supporting us with training, finance and recruitment. A great service that every growing organisation should connect with

MES Systems Limited,

I have had an excellent experience working with Laura from the Growth Hub, from day one, she was taking detailed attention to my concerns and ideas. She was able to put me in contact with different organisations and people to find out answers to my questions and help me to solve some inquiries I was having. I feel this support definitely had a positive impact in my plans.

PALACIOS LTD,

It’s been a fantastic inaugural eight months for the TalentTech Recruitment team and, although the reality of setting up and running a company can be a somewhat daunting experience, we have been extremely grateful for the superb help, advice and guidance given to us along our journey by Gavin Barnett and the team at CW Growth Hub. Gavin’s introductions to both Warwick & Coventry Universities and his wider business network have been absolutely invaluable.

TalentTech Recruitment LTD,

For many individuals out there, it is very hard to figure out ways and know which direction to go when it comes to setting up a business. The challenges of taking your idea and bringing it to life and not knowing where to go and who to speak to for advice. it can get very frustrating..

King of Saffron LTD,

This grant [which we received with the help of the Growth Hub and Coventry City Council] will really help us get on track for business growth and succeed with our vision. Personally, I would also like to thank the team for supporting me through the grant application process. You have been very approachable and attentive throughout.

Exeter Analytical (UK) Limited,

Thank you for the comprehensive and professional guidance

Burbidge & Son Ltd,

Over the years since the Growth Hub was set up we have habitually gone to our Account Manager as a one-stop shop for all business-related information. It has been a really convenient way of finding suppliers, advisors and, on one occasion, we even asked for assistance with finding customers. We are invited to a wide range of business events including business development workshops, Brexit roundtable discussions, seminars on various topics and have also been asked to speak at some events. When we have needed additional information, for example, finding finance sources or help with selecti

Marchantcain Design Limited,

Thanks to CW Growth hub getting us access to grant funding we have been able to invest in the latest computer monitoring system, which will enable us to compete with the national companies within our industry.

Comrie Leisure Limited,