Gift supplier unwraps growth plans with £500,000 backing

A West Midlands gift wholesaler is packaging up further expansion after receiving a £500,000 funding boost.

Sutton Coldfield-based Heaven Sends has secured investment from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II through Frontier Development Capital to support the next phase of its growth.

Founded in 2003, the business is known for its shabby chic interiors, quirky gifts and decorative collections sourced from suppliers around the world.

Heaven Sends supplies festive gifts, home accessories and seasonal decorations to almost 3000 retailers across the UK, including independent shops, garden centres and national chains.

The firm currently employs 48 staff alongside seasonal workers and is led by managing director Andy Jones, with founder Fiona McAllister continuing in her role as creative director.

Andy says the latest funding will help Heaven Sends broaden its range beyond seasonal products as it looks to strengthen its position as a year-round home décor supplier.

Plans include investment in its e-commerce platform, the digitisation of its warehouse operations and the creation of five new jobs.

Andy said: “As a nation, we are all spending more time at home – working from home and staying in more. 

“The home environment has become more important and even when money is tight, people will still buy smaller items that brighten up their space. 

“Home décor is at the heart of our business and there is an opportunity for us to expand our year-round offering and further digitise our business. 

“The funding will help us achieve this.”

Marie Kelly, of Frontier Development Capital, added: “Fiona and Andy have built a thriving business by offering attractive products, keen prices and a fantastic service for retailers. 

“After 25 years, it is now entering a new phase in its development and we are pleased to support them on the journey.”

Chasz Coulsting, of Jerroms Corporate Finance, which is based in Solihull, provided fundraising advice to Heaven Sends.

The £400 million Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, operated by the British Business Bank, provides debt finance of £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help Midlands-based small and medium-sized businesses start, grow or innovate, aiming to boost sustainable economic growth, increase early-stage funding availability and improve access to finance for firms that might otherwise miss out.

David Tindall, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, added: “Heaven Sends is the kind of ambitious business that the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II is designed to support. 

“The company has built an impressive reputation in the giftware and retail sector, with a clear growth strategy and a commitment to innovation and job creation in the Midlands.

“The recent investment will help accelerate Heaven Sends’ next phase of growth, strengthening its operations and expanding its market reach. 

“We’re pleased to support the team as they continue to build the business and contribute to the wider economy.”       

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