Cremation service provider secures funding for growth
A Tipton-based cremation service provider has secured a £200,000 growth loan to expand its operations, purchase new equipment and create jobs in the region.
Chapter Response secured the funding from The FSE Group, Debt Finance fund through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF).
The support will allow the business to expand its service to more UK locations. Two new electric ambulances, equipped with medical tracking software, as well as three refrigeration units will be purchased using the funding, with eight employees also set to be recruited and trained.
Chapter Response is committed to creating a cremation choice which reduces funeral poverty, which currently affects one in eight families. Many are unable to afford the average traditional cremation costs of around £4,000.
Specialising in unattended private cremation services has allowed the business to increase its efficiencies and pass on these cost savings to families. The firm’s team of ambulances and responders oversee unattended private cremation services and return the urn to the family home.
Donna Baker, founder and CEO of Chapter Response, said: “We are pleased to be able to expand our service to reach more areas in the UK. Having been in the industry for over 20 years, we recognise the individuality of each and every end-of-life celebration to reassure families that their loved one is in capable, responsible and respectful hands. It’s been a positive experience working with Kerry, helping us to secure the funding required for the next stage of the business’s journey.”
Kerry Haughton, fund manager, at The FSE Group, which manages the MEIF Debt Finance Fund, added: “We are proud to have supported Chapter Response with its service expansion plans across the UK. Donna’s understanding of the funeral business demonstrated to us the strength of Chapter Response and helped to secure the investment. Through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund, The FSE Group is committed to providing finance to Midlands’ businesses with the potential to grow. We look forward to accompanying Donna and her team for the next phase of their development.”
