Flexible funding package supports expansion at Atlas

Atlas Composite Technologies has secured a multi-million-pound funding package to support its continued growth and expansion, including the opening of a new facility in Derby.

The Ilkeston-based manufacturer, which specialises in high-performance composite parts for sectors including aerospace, motorsport and defence, has seen rising demand for its services as it takes on larger and more complex contracts. Founded in 2017, the business now employs more than 100 staff and recently launched a second site at Pride Park to increase capacity.

To support this growth, Atlas required a funding solution that could adapt to fluctuations in its order book and provide additional headroom as new work is secured. With Ben Swain recently stepping into the role of managing director, the business was looking to align funding with its next phase of development.

Nottingham-based Evolve Business Finance arranged a package combining a revolving credit facility and a term loan with Allica Bank. The structure enables the company to access working capital as needed while also securing longer-term funding to underpin its expansion plans.

Ben Swain, managing director of Atlas Composite Technologies, said: “Stef and the Evolve team have been our first call whenever funding comes up and that’s because they genuinely understand our business. Stef is always available – whatever the time of day – and acts more like a business adviser than a broker.

“On this deal he managed everything from valuations and surveys through to liaising with different lenders and insurers. It was also provided at very competitive market rates which took a huge weight off our shoulders.”

Stef Radymski, director at Evolve Business Finance, said the funding was designed to match the company’s operational needs:

“Atlas Composite Technologies has worked with us for many years so we understand how the business is structured and what was required. This funding was about giving the business the headroom to service new orders, win new customers and keep delivering as it opened an additional site.

“We structured a revolving facility alongside a term loan which means the funding grows with the business as new projects come in.”

Jon Bennett of Allica Bank added: “It was a pleasure to support Atlas Composite Technologies alongside Evolve Business Finance.

“Allica Bank’s innovative Growth Finance Revolving Working Capital facility gives the business flexibility to meet current and future demand.

“Working closely with Stef and the Atlas team meant we could move quickly and design a facility that suits the ambition of the business. We look forward to supporting the continued expansion.”

The deal reflects a broader trend among growing UK manufacturers seeking flexible finance solutions that can scale alongside demand, particularly as businesses invest in capacity and navigate an increasingly complex economic environment.