Productivity programme helps manufacturer tune into new phase of growth

A firm which has served Sheffield for over 50 years has secured grant funding from the South Yorkshire Business Productivity Programme.

Blake UK employs 24 people. It designs, supplies and manufactures aerials, CCTV systems, Wi-Fi signal boosting equipment and networking products for domestic and commercial use.

Faced with increasing competition, notably from overseas, the senior management team realised a strategic review was required.

Managing director Paul Blake approached Business Sheffield for support from a business adviser. He then applied to the Business Productivity Grant Programme.

Working with key account manager Andrew Sorsby, he secured a match funded grant, which has been used to purchase new equipment to improve the company’s manufacturing process.

At the same time the firm’s computer systems were upgraded, improving its manufacturing operations and stock level monitoring.

The changes have increased the business’s productivity, allowing it to cost-effectively diversify its product range and capitalise on new opportunities. The company has also recruited two new apprentices.

Also thanks to the grant, Blake UK has eliminated waste and costs. It has introduced a paperless order processing system and streamlined activities in its manufacturing, warehousing and sales operations.

Paul Blake said: “We’d come to the conclusion that some of the systems we used to manage the business were no longer fit for purpose.

“When I approached Business Sheffield to discuss the challenges we were facing, our key account manager suggested our business may be eligible for help under the Business Productivity Programme.

“The impact of this project has exceeded all expectations. The new software means we can manage the team much more effectively and diversify the product range, which has resulted in a significant increase in new orders.”

Sorsby added: “Perhaps most importantly of all, the technology embraced by the company has helped it successfully prepare for future growth and cement its position as one of the UK’s leading operators within a highly competitive marketplace.”

The Business Productivity Programme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and provides businesses with 50% grant funding up to a maximum of £12,499. The other 50% must be provided by the business.

The maximum project application is £24,999 and can include investment in new equipment or machinery and consultancy services to overcome barriers to growth. The scheme is delivered by Enterprising Barnsley, Business Sheffield, Business Doncaster and the Rotherham Investment and Development Office (RiDO).