Fragrance firm's plans smell sweet with backing

A family-run fragrance maker is targeting global growth after securing six-figure support.

The Eclectic Lifestyle Company has been backed by an NPIF II – FW Capital Debt Finance loan.

Bosses say the cash will boost a blueprint to expand into the US, Australia, Japan, the Czech Republic and Poland.

Founded in 1998, and taken over by John and Debra Pattinson in 2012, the Chester-based company designs and makes the WXY and Maegen brands.

Known for working with retailers including ASOS, John Lewis and TK Maxx, officials say it is primed to grow turnover by 50 per cent to £3.5 million over the next 12 months.

John said: “We’re well underway with our plans to export our products to the US market with the imminent opening of a third-party warehouse in Gloucester City, New Jersey.

“We’ve also identified further markets in Australia, Japan, Czech Republic and Poland, but had been holding back because we didn’t have the working capital needed to buy stock up front. 

“We can now accelerate our global growth with confidence.”

Barry Wilson, FW Capital investment executive, added: “This will take the business to the next level, scaling up operations globally by exporting some fantastic UK manufactured products to a wider audience.”

NPIF II – FW Capital Debt Finance is managed by FW Capital as part of the £660 million Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, which is overseen by British Business Bank and provides loans from £25,000 to £2 million, and equity investment up to £5 million, to small and medium-sized businesses.

Sue Barnard, British Business Bank senior investment manager, said: “The Eclectic Lifestyle Company is a great example of a Northern business combining creativity, quality manufacturing and family values to achieve impressive growth.”

Fragr

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