Hull furniture startup creates new jobs with move into larger manufacturing facility

LabFX, a Hull-based specialist fixed furniture manufacturer, has moved into a new manufacturing facility with support from a six-figure startup funding package from HSBC.

Established in Hull nine months ago by Ian Macfarlane, the business specialises in designing and manufacturing laboratory and education furniture in the UK and Europe.

Since its founding, LabFX has already secured multiple contracts, including a contract worth in excess of £1m from Kier Group to fit out laboratories for the University of Cambridge.

HSBC’s funding package has allowed LabFX to create a 24,000 sq ft state-of-the-art facility in Hull.

The business covers all aspects of the furniture manufacture process, from design to installation, with all manufacturing taking place at the new facility.

With the backing of HSBC, LabFX has also invested in three new machines to enable it to produce standard and bespoke furniture for its customers.

As a result of this expansion, LabFX has recruited six new members of staff, with another five joining soon.

Phil Look, HSBC’s area director of North Yorkshire and Humber, said: “We are pleased to be backing LabFX. It is a dynamic business and is a fine addition to Hull’s growing manufacturing sector.

“We look forward to seeing the business grow and our continued support demonstrates our appetite to support local businesses in Humberside and beyond.”

Ian Macfarlane, managing director of LabFX, added: “HSBC is the perfect partner for us. We are the newest company in our market with ambitious plans for growth and the bank’s support has been critical to our success so far.

“Customers across education, healthcare, research and development have responded well to our offer and our order book continues to grow. We’re extremely excited about the future, and dedicated to developing our business.”