Brown & Holmes (Derby) Limited

Brown & Holmes began its life in Coventry back in 1939 supporting the WWII war effort, before moving to Tamworth to avoid the bombing raids.  Always working within the defence sector, the company recently made the decision to expand and set up a dedicated facility in Derby, focussing on the design, manufacture and maintenance of complex mechanical and electrical solutions for both programmes and products, deigned to withstand some of the most extreme conditions on the planet.

Why engage with Invest to Grow?

As a relatively new and growing business, there was considerable investment needed on site.  The Invest to Grow funding model appealed as it enabled Brown & Holmes to blend their financing with both a loan that was received upfront at a competitive interest rate, and grant funding.  The funding enabled them to purchase a SMT PCB line and to upgrade the facility with specialist flooring to accommodate this.  Without the loan and grant package from Invest to Grow, this purchase would have been delayed due to financial pressures caused by the challenging economic environment and uncertainty over the timing of new defence projects.  The installation of the new line means Brown & Holmes are now in a strong position to capitalise on projects opportunities as soon as they go live.

Managing Director, Mike Knight commented: “The Invest to Grow funding was vital in delivering the project, with the blended funding package, it made the decision to proceed with the investment almost not a decision”.

What has been the impact of Invest to Grow?

The enhanced capabilities provided by the new line and technology means that not only can Brown & Holmes service their customer’s orders and future requirements, but they have also begun to design and produce their own products.  A direct outcome of the PCB line installation was the need to monitor the air quality and environment surrounding the equipment.  The company have successfully designed their own air monitoring system to do this, and using the new assets to manufacture it, now have a fully commercialised product that is receiving growing interest from companies in many new markets.

The funding from Invest to Grow has led to other engagement at the University of Derby, with the company keen to further its relationship by supporting open days, employment fairs and industry visits.

Mike Knight commented: “We think it is vitally important to support the local community and develop young talent in the area”.  

The company was also successful in securing grant funding from the Derby Innovation Accelerator, which helped them to purchase a 3D Resin printer, which has complimented the new opportunities presented by the new SMT PCB technology. 

Overall, the business has found working with ITG a positive experience with Mike Knight reporting “The team have been more than helpful guiding us through the process, there was always someone on hand to provide assistance.”