Swindon printer secures £100K for equipment investment following surge in demand

Swindon-based print-on-demand manufacturer, PrintClever, has invested in new equipment following a surge in customer demand, thanks to a £100,000 funding package from Lloyds Bank.

Established in 2011, PrintClever designs and prints branded items for some of the world’s biggest consumer brands. It has seen an increase in demand for printing services across its 200-strong product range, as businesses expand their branded collateral – offering customers the latest printed goods.

The six-figure loan from Lloyds Bank which included support from the Recovery Loan Scheme, will enable the business to double its t-shirt printing capabilities by investing in state-of-the-art direct-to-garment print machines to meet the growing demand.

The business currently employs more than 25 staff and has enjoyed 10 years of continued sales growth, generating revenue in excess of £4m.

Ryan Acres, who founded the business along with his dad Tony, believes investment in the new technology is crucial for the business’s future growth.

Ryan said: “It’s hard to believe how far the business has come since I was printing t-shirts and mugs in my parents’ garage when I was 16 years old. We operate in a fast-paced market where we have to be flexible and react to the needs of our print-on-demand customers. Investing in the latest technology and continuing to upgrade our printing capabilities will allow us to offer more for our customers and their markets.

“Our Business Banking Manager at Lloyds Bank completely understands the reactive nature of our business and that we have to be able to meet the demands of our customers quickly and effectively. With the Bank’s support over the last decade, we’ve been able to adapt and expand to become the business we are today.”

Elaine Hunter, Specialist Business Manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “Ryan and the team are a great example of a thriving manufacturer in the direct-to-consumer market. We’re proud to have supported PrintClever through its recent growth and I’m confident the latest investment will allow the business to cement themselves as a true market leader.”