A £30,000 grant from Derby Enterprise Growth Fund (DEGF) has enabled a specialist engineering company to invest in new machinery that will increase its capabilities and create three new design and operational jobs.
Acres Engineering in Melbourne designs and manufactures bespoke product handling equipment. Its customers include Blue Chip local, national and international manufacturing clients who operate in a wide range of industries including rail, aerospace, automotive, power and pharmaceutical.
The company applied for funding from the £20 million DEGF which is supported by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund and run by Derby City Council. DEGF provides grants and loans to support growth, innovation and job creation in Derby and the surrounding area.
Acres Engineering were awarded the grant to support their £100,000 investment programme. This has created a mezzanine floor expansion to the factory and purchased specialist foam profile cutting equipment.
The new equipment will be used for research and development into new storage solutions for manufacturing companies. It will also enable specialist packing and distribution of its bespoke equipment for customers from hand held devices to large automated machinery.
Director Luke Parker explained: “We have continuously invested in new technology to support our objectives of helping our customers reduce costs and increase efficiencies through innovative product handling equipment.
“The support from DEGF has been invaluable in our expansion plans. The real winner is our customers who can now benefit from a wider range of options, delivered in a more efficient, cost effective way.
“We hope to continue to grow the new areas of the business and look forward to working with any new clients who wish to engage with us.”
Acres Engineering was originally formed in 1947 in Willington – largely manufacturing equipment for the horticultural and brewery industries. The company then expanded into other manufacturing areas, prompted by the opening of Toyota’s Burnaston plant nearby in 1992.
The company moved to the new, larger factory in Melbourne in 2008. Innovations over the years have included the introduction of plastic fabrication alongside the traditional metal materials and investment in 3D CAD design. It is now a £1.2 million turnover company with 22 staff.
Derby City Council Director of Regeneration Richard Williams is a member of the DEGF panel of financial and industry experts who consider business applications.
He said: “DEGF was established with a remit of providing grants and loans to a wide range of companies. It is particularly focused on supporting the extensive supply chain for the major automotive, rail and aerospace companies as these are so integral to the economic well-being of Derby and the travel to work area.
“Acres Engineering is an important part of that supply chain. It provides innovative solutions to increase efficiency and reduce costs in the manufacturing processes of companies both home and abroad.”
Applications continue to be welcomed by Derby City Council. To find out more visit: www.derby.gov.uk/degf. Alternatively call 01332 641628 or email degf@derby.gov.uk
