By Beverly Rademacher

Copyright expressandstar

Ace Embroidery, which supplies embroidered, printed and engraved products ranging from clothing to printed bags, pens, mugs, engraved trophies and awards, received the funding from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II through Wolverhampton’s BCRS Business Loans to help with expansion plans.

Ace Embroidery – which was established in 1987 – has used the funding to move from Malt Mill Lane, Halesowen, to a greener, more fit for purpose warehouse unit on Broadwyn Trading Estate, Waterfall Lane, in Cradley Heath, Sandwell, that will support the long-term growth of the family business which supplies custom workwear, uniforms and clothing to large companies and organisations such as clubs, groups, associations and event organisers.

Mathew Smart, managing director at Ace Embroidery – which has its own in-house services using state-of-the-art machinery, said: “Moving to the new site has enabled us to focus better on what we offer and restructure and reset the business. It will help us to modernise operations, take on new customers and expand into new markets.

“The new warehouse has a better location, size and layout. Having one level and a mezzanine floor makes it far easier to manage jobs and communicate with the team.

“The site also has better staff facilities and is more energy efficient, which has helped us to cut down on running costs.

“Working with BCRS to get the funding was super easy, and business development manager Lynn Wyke was very helpful throughout the process.”

BCRS Business Loans business development manager Lynn Wyke said: “I am pleased BCRS has been able to provide the support that Ace Embroidery needs to continue to thrive as a business and capitalise on future opportunities. The move will make the business a lot more efficient and sustainable in the long term and will benefit the whole team.”

Beth Bannister, senior investment manager at British Business Bank, said: “The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II plays an important role in supporting small businesses in the region by widening access to a broad range of finance and lending options.

“We are pleased the fund has been able to support Ace Embroidery with its growth plans. The British Business Bank and the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II are committed to enabling businesses to access the finance they need to grow, and it is inspiring to see this family owned firm continue to unlock its potential.”

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II drives sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunities for new and growing businesses across the Midlands.

It is increasing the supply and diversity of early-stage finance for smaller businesses in the Midlands, providing funds to firms that might otherwise not receive investment and help to break down barriers in access to finance.

BCRS Business Loans has provided loans worth more than £100 million to businesses since its launch in 2002. Its 2024-25 financial year was one of its most successful to date, with £9,900,502 provided to 124 businesses – a 68 per cent increase in the number of SMEs supported compared to the previous year.