Hot off the press – grants to industry!

Two Blackburn businesses have made new investments thanks to Assistance to Industry grant from Blackburn with Darwen Council.

The grants are awarded to companies to help them expand and are related in part to the number of new jobs being created.

First 4 Print Finishing, based at Blackburn, Whitebirk Industrial Estate has received a grant which has allowed it to purchase new equipment and take on five new staff.

The company is one of the largest dedicated fold, stitch and trim finishing houses in the country and recently won for a third time Print Weeks Award for the SME company of the year.

Finance Director Lorenzo Fardella, said:

It’s given a real boost to our business and allowed us to increase productivity significantly and of course take on new people which is great.

Assistance to Industry is a really valuable scheme and it’s great that the Council is working to encourage local companies to invest because it’s something that they need to be able to grow.

The other company that has also benefited from the grant is Ronset who produce printed boards and banners, leaflets, booklets, promotional items and signage.

The Blackburn Greenbank Industrial Estate company was set up by Ronald Farnworth in 1962 and is now managed by son Peter, who started his career as an apprentice.

Ronset have received assistance to upgrade their print finishing equipment which has allowed them to take on a new employee. The company is also considering an apprentice position.

Commercial Manager Chris Durham, said

Ronset is constantly looking at new technology to improve print production levels and make the whole process more efficient. It was with this in mind that we approached the Council and I’ve got to say the help and support we received in obtaining the grant from Matthew and the team has been  first class. On the back of this we have taken on another member of staff whose skill level and enthusiasm will further enhance Ronset growth plan.

Councillor Phil Riley, Executive Member for Regeneration said:

Encouraging businesses to grow and attracting others to come and invest in the borough is one of our key priorities as a council. “Through having flourishing business and industrial sectors in Blackburn with Darwen we can increase economic growth, employment prospects and with that a good quality of life for residents.

I’m delighted to see two great firms thriving and glad that we were able to support them.

For information about how to apply contact matthew.sidgreaves@blackburn.gov.uk