Manufacturer nets funding boost to support new projects – including Netflix show

A Shropshire-based manufacturer with a proud 50-year heritage is embarking on a new chapter of growth after a securing a funding boost from Lloyds Bank.

Founded in 1992, Hornsey Steel Panels and Sections, which specialises in metal roofing panels and structural steel products, has been able to complete a state-of-the-art manufacturing site to support a range of high-profile customer projects, including a Netflix film and television set.

With popular UK Netflix productions such as The Crown and Bridgerton captivating audiences worldwide, the firm’s custom solutions are proving invaluable to major industry players.

Most recently, Samuel Hornsey, who took over as company director when his father Mark stepped down in 2014, led the construction of a state-of-the-art, 24-bay facility, creating an operational space that is 2.5 times larger than its previous premises.

The development was made possible by a £1.5 million Clean Growth Financing Initiative (CGFI) development loan from Lloyds, a product specifically tailored to support sustainable growth projects.

Additionally, a trade finance facility facilitated the import of a £1.3 million advanced manufacturing machine from Taiwan, further expanding production capabilities.

When the new machine is installed in February 2025, an £800,000 hire purchase facility will repay the trade line, streamlining the financing of this key equipment.

The new manufacturing site, previously an old coal yard, is purpose-built to improve operations and sustainability.

Designed with a long, linear layout on a former coal yard, the facility accommodates the production of metal roofing panels and structural steel products.

The new site is equipped with energy-efficient lighting, and the company is finalising plans with Shropshire and Worcestershire Council to install a 104 kW solar array.

In addition, 70 per cent of the building’s materials were manufactured in-house, showcasing Hornsey Steel Panels and Sections’ ability to integrate its expertise into the construction process.

The company’s expansion has unlocked job opportunities at the firm, bringing its workforce to 30, with 80 per cent of employees based locally within 15 miles of the site. This includes a new Commercial Director whose expertise will support the company’s ambitious plans.

With the new facility and equipment, Hornsey Steel Panels and Sections has already increased operational efficiency by 25 per cent and expects to increase its turnover to up to £25 million this year.

Samuel Hornsey, company director of Hornsey Steel Panels and Sections, said: “This expansion enables us to meet growing customer demand, significantly broaden our product range, and improve efficiency across the board.”

Jason Gregory, relationship manager at Lloyds, added: “Hornsey Steel Panels and Sections is an inspiring example of a forward-thinking, family-run British manufacturer.

“It’s been a pleasure to support them in their expansion and sustainability initiatives.”