Marble firm solidifies business with funding deal

A BLACK Country specialist manufacturer has solidified its business by purchasing its existing factory premises.

Tipton-based Marble and Granite Trading Ltd, which operates as Optima Designs, supplies a range of granite products to the building industry.

It has been aided in its purchase plans by a £150,000 financial package from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

The company now has plans to expand the business and is looking to create three new jobs.

Having previously rented the three adjoining units on the Princess Industrial Estate, the firm is now looking to expand its presence at the site, with the installation of a mezzanine floor to accommodate office staff, as well as the opening of a new on-site showroom.

The expansion of the team will see the company’s headcount double from three to six, enabling it to accept more orders.

A specialist manufacturer and supplier of granite, marble, quartz and sandstone products, Optima Designs offers a wide range of high quality products, including work surfaces, tiles, and fireplaces. In addition to its base in Tipton, the firm also operates a showroom in Erdington.
 
Mala Sokhal, managing director of Optima Designs, said: “The acquisition of our premises has been a big objective for us, and will allow us to grow the business whilst also creating new jobs for local people.
 
“We’ve enjoyed our relationship with Lloyds Bank for many years, and their guidance in enabling us to complete the purchase of the units has been invaluable. We look forward to continuing to partner with them as we look ahead to our next stage of growth.”
 
Rob Taylor, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Local manufacturing is proving to be one of the key drivers of economic growth, and it’s vital for us to support firms like Optima Designs to reach their potential.”