Furniture manufacturer creates jobs in move to 24,000 sq ft premises with six-figure start-up loan

A specialist fixed furniture manufacturer has moved to a 24,000 sq ft facility in Hull with the help of a six-figure start-up funding package.

LabFX, launched nine months ago, specialises in designing and manufacturing laboratory and education furniture in the UK and Europe. The business was set up by Ian Macfarlane, an industry expert with more than 30 years’ experience.

The company has already secured multiple contracts, including a contract worth in excess of £1m from Kier Group to fit out laboratories for the University of Cambridge.

HSBC’s funding package has supported LabFX’s start-up costs and allowed the business to create the state-of-the-art facility.

LabFX has recruited six new members of staff, with another five joining soon. The additional hires include the company’s first apprentice, with plans to take more on over the coming months.

Ian Macfarlane, managing director of LabFX, said: “HSBC is the perfect partner for us. We are the newest company in our market with ambitious plans for growth and the bank’s support has been critical to our success so far. Customers across education, healthcare, research and development have responded well to our offer and our order book continues to grow. We’re extremely excited about the future, and dedicated to developing our business.”
Phil Look, HSBC’s area director of North Yorkshire and Humber, said: “We are pleased to be backing LabFX. It is a dynamic business and is a fine addition to Hull’s growing manufacturing sector. We look forward to seeing the business grow and our continued support demonstrates our appetite to support local businesses in Humberside and beyond.”