Manufacturer to create jobs with Midlands Engine Fund cash

A manufacturer of security products has secured a £250,000 loan from The Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), managed by Maven Capital Partners

Concept Smoke Screen, based in Swineshead near Boston, will use the loan to create five new jobs and supporting plans to expand globally. The funding will also allow CSS to launch a new product in the UK.

Founded in 1992 and led by Matt Gilmartin, CSS manufactured the security smoke screen which immediately releases a harmless dense fog which can quickly fill a confined space to disorientate an intruder.

Matt Gilmartin, managing director of CSS, said: “We are looking forward to the next phase of growth for our business which will include launching a new product in the UK, overseas expansion and welcoming new staff to the team. Working with the Maven team has been a positive experience and with the funding under our belt, we look forward to seeing what the future holds for us.”

Jonathan Lowe, investment director at Maven Capital Partners, said: “CSS is an established business with expert knowledge and experience in the security industry. We worked closely with NatWest to structure our loan alongside the existing bank finance, to provide extra support for the company.

“Matt and the team at CSS are dedicated to driving the business forward and we look forward to working with them as they execute the firm’s growth plans and continue to expand its customer reach across the UK and overseas.”