Funding to help marquee hire firm add ‘wow factor’ to events
A North Yorkshire company which supplies marquees for some of the UK’s most exclusive events has raised a six-figure funding package to add a striking new structure to its range.
The backing has come from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, which is managed by Mercia Debt as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).
Ripon-based The English Marquee Company has taken delivery of its latest addition, which is capable of holding 350 people, and is currently installed at a high-profile private members’ club and hotel in the Cotswolds.
The 500 sq ft structure, known as the Nord, has been made to the company’s own specification and consists of glass panels with a glulam frame – an engineered wood product that is a more sustainable alternative to steel.
It is one of a growing number of marquees that the business offers, alongside its glass orangeries and more traditional pole tent range.
The English Marquee Company provides structures for everything from a small garden party to lavish weddings and major corporate events.
Customers include Newby Hall and Grantley Hall in Yorkshire, as well as high-net worth individuals and event planners.
The business was founded in 2018 by brother and sister Sam and Victoria (Tor) Peters who spotted a gap in the market for marquee hire. The company now employs around 30 staff.
Tor Peters said: “In recent years, particularly since the pandemic, both businesses and individuals have placed greater value on bringing people together, creating connections and crafting unforgettable experiences.
“Our marquees provide an exceptional centrepiece or backdrop to any event.
“We pride ourselves on our stunning range, our responsive customer service and our ability to transform even the most challenging, hard to access sites.
“This latest funding from Mercia and NPIF allows us to add another innovative marquee to our range in line with our aim to create the most sought-after event spaces.”
Andy Clough, of Mercia Debt, added: “Sam and Tor had a vision to take marquee hire to a new level and create the most spectacular events spaces.
“The business has been growing exponentially and is now the go-to supplier for elite event planners and private clients.
“Mercia and NPIF have provided several rounds of funding to help them build their product range and are pleased to have played a part in their success.”
Lizzy Upton, senior manager at the British Business Bank, said: “The events industry has really picked up over the last two years, with people looking for ways to socialise post-Covid.
“It’s brilliant to watch Yorkshire businesses like the English Marquee Company using NPIF II to capitalise on this, using the Fund to purchase new equipment to support its growth and unlock potential in the region.”
The £660m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II) covers the entire North of England and provides loans from £25,000 to £2m and equity investment up to £5m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to start up, scale up or stay ahead.
