Funding enables print firm to press ahead

A South Tyneside printing business is pressing ahead with ambitious expansion plans after securing six-figure funding to invest in new equipment and target £1 million turnover.

Jarrow-based Cut Print Solutions has received backing from the North East Elevate Fund, managed by FW Capital, to invest in new equipment and support future recruitment.

Established in 2023 by Madge and Stephen Downey, Cut Print Solutions provides commercial printing services spanning wide-format and fine-art printing, custom-cut stickers, vinyl and architectural plans.

The company is acquiring a next-generation Fuji EC1100 production printing press, alongside an automated booklet maker, guillotine and flat-bed cutter.

Bosses say the investment will increase production capacity and efficiency while reducing costs, providing a platform for further growth at its Jarrow Business Centre base.

The investment forms part of a longer-term strategy to grow the business into a £1 million turnover operation, with plans to expand its workforce as demand increases.

Madge said: “We’ve experienced really strong growth since starting Cut Print Solutions in 2023, and this investment gives us the opportunity to take the business to the next level. 

“The new equipment will significantly increase our production capacity, allow us to bring more work in-house and give our customers faster turnaround times while maintaining the quality and service we’ve built our reputation on.

“We have ambitious plans for Cut Print Solutions and want to continue growing our team, expanding our customer base across the UK and building on the range of print and branding services we offer. 

“Ruby and the team at FW Capital have been fantastic throughout the process. 

“What impressed us was their honest approach and the fact that they took the time to understand our business and where we want to take it. 

“For us, it was about finding the right funding partner rather than simply taking a loan.”

Ruby Knowles, assistant investment executive at FW Capital, added: “Cut Print Solutions is a fantastic South Tyneside-based business who are experiencing significant growth. 

“They are growing their customer base and increasing their capacity. 

“The funding marks a key step forward for the business, allowing them to invest further in new equipment that will meet their increased operational needs as well as increasing efficiency and reducing costs. 

“It was great to be able to complete the funding quickly which was helped by the good quality information that was available from the Cut Print Solutions team and their advisors.”

Funding has been provided through the North East Elevate Fund, part of North East mayor Kim McGuinness’ £100 million regional investment framework, administered by The North East Fund.

Alongside the North East Accelerate and North East Spinout Inspire funds, the initiative is designed to improve access to early-stage finance for start-ups, scale-ups and growing businesses across the region.

James Holloway, external engagement officer at North East Fund, added: “Cut Print Solutions are exactly the sort of business the Fund was established to support – a fantastic local organisation demonstrating strong growth and a commitment to the local area.”

Councillor Susan Sybenga, deputy leader of South Tyneside Council and lead member for finance and resources, added: “It’s fantastic to see Cut Print Solutions become one of the first South Tyneside businesses to benefit from the North East Elevate Fund. 

“This investment will help the company build on its success, create new opportunities and strengthen its position here in South Tyneside.

“Access to finance is often one of the biggest challenges facing ambitious businesses. 

“Through the North East Elevate Fund and the wider North East Fund, we’re helping companies unlock investment, drive innovation and accelerate growth. 

“We want South Tyneside to be a place where businesses can start, scale and succeed, and I would encourage other local firms to explore the support available and take advantage of the opportunities on offer.”

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