Coventry manufacturing and engineering specialist invests in future expansion plans

A manufacturing and engineering specialist in Coventry which counts Formula 1 teams among its clients is gearing up for a successful future after investing in its future expansion plans.

Vigour was set-up by Ashley Hatton in 2015 as a multi-axis machining specialist, focusing on producing high-precision components for the motorsport industry.

The business, based on the Binley Industrial Estates in Binley, also supplies parts for teams taking part in the FIA World Rally Championship and Olympic gold-winning sailor Ben Ainslie’s team in the America’s Cup.

Ashley wanted to improve Vigour’s efficiencies and productivity by eliminating some of its administration work and streamlining its data and information.

He contacted Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub Account Manager Justine Chadwick and as part of providing ongoing business engagement and support, she put Ashley in touch with Kierandeep Bal, Business Development Advisor at Coventry City Council, to access grant support via the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme which was part-funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The business successfully received a grant totalling £7,737 towards buying software and a laser marking machine to add serial numbers and the company’s name to the parts it manufactures.

Ashley said he has invested over £120,000 in various machinery over the last 12-18 months, so the grant had reduced the pressure on the company’s cashflow.

He said: “I love being involved in motorsport and my first customer was Formula 1 team Toro Rosso – now Alpha Tauri. We make complex small parts for a number of F1 teams as well as teams in the World Rally Championship.

“Having the specialist software system means we can keep accurate information on all our stock, production, despatch, invoicing and accounts so we have better traceability and streamlined processes, and we no longer need to carry out some of the repetitive administrative tasks which means we have more time to do other jobs and have increased our productivity.

“Buying a laser etching machine is a good investment, particularly since we managed to purchase an ex-demo version and we are providing a quicker turnaround for our customers. We’re hoping this will lead to more work, particularly in the aerospace industry which is a sector we are now targeting.”

Justine Chadwick, Account Manager at Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, said Vigour is looking forward to the future with confidence.

“The business is currently located in two separate units which are close by and Ashley has plans to move to other premises on the site which are much bigger and will be able to accommodate all the machinery in one place,” she said.

“This will lead to further improving its productivity and there are plans in the future to recruit an apprentice to provide a broad range of skills.”

Cllr Jim O'Boyle, Coventry City Council Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change, said: “Our region has long had a reputation for being at the heart of the UK’s automotive industry and that’s largely thanks to innovative local manufacturers like Vigour. We’re determined to build on this reputation and that’s why I’m delighted that the Growth Hub has been able to support Vigour to realise their ambitions.

“We want to create an environment that helps businesses to develop and grow, so I would encourage local businesses to get in touch with the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub to see how they can help support.”

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Without the Growth Hubs help and assistance, we would never have been able to increase our sales & output and also grow our local business. With this help in purchasing new equipment we have expanded our operations and gained a new and increased customer base.

Nuneaton Roof Truss,

Over the past few years, Armstrongs has built up a fantastic relationship with Gary Thyeson from the Growth Hub. His advice on grants and funding has been really valuable to both Armstrongs and some of our clients. His knowledge of local business support has been helpful in signposting us to relevant support agencies as required. We look forward to working with Laura Delahunty moving forwards.

Armstrongs Accountancy LTD,

In the short time since first engaging with the Warwickshire Growth Hub we feel that Laura has understood our vision and has been so very supportive in linking us to the specialist teams who are now supporting us with training, finance and recruitment. A great service that every growing organisation should connect with

MES Systems Limited,

I have had an excellent experience working with Laura from the Growth Hub, from day one, she was taking detailed attention to my concerns and ideas. She was able to put me in contact with different organisations and people to find out answers to my questions and help me to solve some inquiries I was having. I feel this support definitely had a positive impact in my plans.

PALACIOS LTD,

It’s been a fantastic inaugural eight months for the TalentTech Recruitment team and, although the reality of setting up and running a company can be a somewhat daunting experience, we have been extremely grateful for the superb help, advice and guidance given to us along our journey by Gavin Barnett and the team at CW Growth Hub. Gavin’s introductions to both Warwick & Coventry Universities and his wider business network have been absolutely invaluable.

TalentTech Recruitment LTD,

For many individuals out there, it is very hard to figure out ways and know which direction to go when it comes to setting up a business. The challenges of taking your idea and bringing it to life and not knowing where to go and who to speak to for advice. it can get very frustrating..

King of Saffron LTD,

This grant [which we received with the help of the Growth Hub and Coventry City Council] will really help us get on track for business growth and succeed with our vision. Personally, I would also like to thank the team for supporting me through the grant application process. You have been very approachable and attentive throughout.

Exeter Analytical (UK) Limited,

Thank you for the comprehensive and professional guidance

Burbidge & Son Ltd,

Over the years since the Growth Hub was set up we have habitually gone to our Account Manager as a one-stop shop for all business-related information. It has been a really convenient way of finding suppliers, advisors and, on one occasion, we even asked for assistance with finding customers. We are invited to a wide range of business events including business development workshops, Brexit roundtable discussions, seminars on various topics and have also been asked to speak at some events. When we have needed additional information, for example, finding finance sources or help with selecti

Marchantcain Design Limited,

Thanks to CW Growth hub getting us access to grant funding we have been able to invest in the latest computer monitoring system, which will enable us to compete with the national companies within our industry.

Comrie Leisure Limited,