Marquee firm enhances portfolio with funding boost

A Ripon-based marquee hire company that has become “the go-to supplier for elite event planners and private clients” has enhanced its portfolio to help meet growing demand after securing a six-figure funding package.

The English Marquee Company, known for its bespoke marquee designs, received the investment from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II. 

The funding has enabled the introduction of ‘The Nord’ to the company’s offering, a 500sq ft glulam-framed marquee with glass panels, capable of holding 350 people and providing “an exceptional centrepiece or backdrop to any event”. 

The Nord, one of a growing number of innovative marquees that the business offers, alongside its glass orangeries and more traditional pole tent range, has already been installed at a private members’ club and hotel in the Cotswolds.

Founded by siblings Sam and Victoria (Tor) Peters in 2018 and now employing 30 staff, the English Marquee Company caters to events ranging from intimate garden parties to large-scale weddings and corporate functions, with notable clients including Yorkshire’s Newby Hall and Grantley Hall.

Tor said: “In recent years, particularly since the pandemic, both businesses and individuals have placed greater value on bringing people together, creating connections and crafting unforgettable experiences. 

“Our marquees provide an exceptional centrepiece or backdrop to any event. 

“We pride ourselves on our stunning range, our responsive customer service and our ability to transform even the most challenging, hard to access sites. 

“This latest funding from Mercia and NPIF allows us to add another innovative marquee to our range in line with our aim to create the most sought-after event spaces.”

Andy Clough, investment manager at Mercia Debt, added: “Sam and Tor had a vision to take marquee hire to a new level and create the most spectacular events spaces. 

“The business has been growing exponentially and is now the go-to supplier for elite event planners and private clients. 

“Mercia and NPIF have provided several rounds of funding to help them build their product range and are pleased to have played a part in their success.” 

The £660 million NPIF II fund, which is administered by the British Business Bank, provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help a range of small and medium sized businesses, driving innovation and creating opportunities for businesses to grow, scale and thrive.

Lizzy Upton, senior manager at the British Business Bank, added: “The events industry has really picked up over the last two years, with people looking for ways to socialise post-Covid. 

“It’s brilliant to watch Yorkshire businesses like the English Marquee Company using NPIF II to capitalise on this, using the Fund to purchase new equipment to support its growth and unlock potential in the region.”

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