Trophy manufacturer scoops six-figure boost

A trophy and rosette maker is set to accelerate growth plans following a six-figure investment. 

Prudhoe Rosettes and Trophies, based in Darlington, has been backed by NPIF II – FW Capital Debt Finance, managed by FW Capital.

Bosses say the funding, secured by business advisors and accountants Armstrong Watson, will “take expansion plans to the next level”.

They add it will aid the company’s rebranding and marketing efforts, and “enhance” manufacturing capabilities, while planned improvements to the company’s premises will help boost production capacity and create new jobs as demand for products increases.

Neil Coaker, managing director at Prudhoe Rosettes and Trophies, who acquired the company when previous owners David and Bridget Emerson retired, said: “We’re focused on investing in growth and taking the business to the next level. 

“It’s very much business as usual for all our staff and customers, but we’re seeking to enhance the service and products we currently provide.  

“This includes an updated website and new branding provided by local business Maitland Web Designers.”

Alex Gent, senior investment executive at FW Capital, added: “I am amazed by the variety of businesses we have in the North East. 

“Prudhoe Rosettes and Trophies is one of those businesses. 

“Visiting the site and seeing the care and attention with which awards for various shows and events were being put together was a treat, and being able to support the company with its continued growth plans under new ownership has been a pleasure.”  

Having been part of the local business community for more than a century, Prudhoe Rosettes has evolved from a stationer to a specialist in trophies, rosettes and commercial printing. 

With the acquisition of Alden Arts in 1999, the company also expanded into canine jewellery and giftware.  

Martin Arkle, general manager at Prudhoe Rosettes and Trophies, added: “Exciting times lie ahead with much needed and overdue improvements to the premises, along with new branding and signage. 

“We have recently acquired new machinery, which will enable us to offer more in-house services including laser engraved signs, crystal and giftware. 

“I am confident all of this will help take our expansion plans to the next level, made possible by growth fund investment supplied by FW Capital.”

Operated by British Business Bank, the £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II covers the entire North of England and provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million, as well as equity investment of up to £5 million for small and medium-sized businesses.

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