Wirral-based Yorkwall Engineering to create 20 jobs with £160k investment

A Wirral engineering firm that makes metal products for UK industry is creating jobs with backing from MSIF and NatWest.

Ellesmere Port-based Yorkwall Engineering Limited plans to take on 20 new members of staff over the next two years and grow its turnover from £500k to more than £1m.

Founded 17 years ago and acquired by director Jonathan Willoughby in 2016, Yorkwall designs, manufactures and installs a range of products, including conveyor systems, platforms, pipework, structural steel, vessels and tanks.

Its clients span the marine, oil and gas, petrochemical, construction and retail sectors.

Liverpool-headquartered funding provider MSIF provided a £40k loan, alongside £60k from NatWest and managing director Jonathan Willoughby’s own investment of £60k.

Jonathan said: “We have built up a strong customer base and believe that there are significant opportunities to grow the business.

“Current projects include the refurbishment of plant components, flanges, shafts and bearing housings to the manufacture of batches of small items for use in other non-plant equipment.”

He continued: “The funding will be used to invest in marketing, new employees and equipment enabling the business to enhance its offering to include a variety of machining, fabrication, welding, structural, mechanical engineering, laser cutting and site services.

“All staff are highly experienced at working with a variety of steel and non-ferrous materials to carry out precise and intricate engineering projects.”

Speaking further, Jonathan said that without assistance from Yorkwall’s financial partners MSIF and NatWest, the company would be unable to pursue its “aggressive expansion plan”, which includes taking on new staff, securing new equipment and broadening its services.

Sue Chambers, investment manager at MSIF, said: “Yorkwall has a fantastic reputation in the marketplace and a very experienced workforce.

“With Jonathan now at the helm, they also have a managing director who is very focused on driving the business forward.”

She added: “The company has recently won some lucrative new contracts and is adding new products and services which will help the business expand into new markets.”

NatWest relationship manager David Jones commented: “NatWest is delighted to help support Yorkwall as it expands its operations. This investment is not only good for the business but will benefit the local economy, creating jobs and sending out a positive message about manufacturing in the North. We wish them every success.”