27th February 2004
Cornwall Goes To Harrods!

How Objective One Money Helped Unlock New Markets

A quartet of Cornish businesses have succeeded in selling their products to top West End stores, and many more are breaking into new markets outside of the county, thanks to Objective One funding.

Assistance through funds managed by South West Investment Group means that at Harrods you can purchase organic health care products made by Spiezia Organic Care near Helston, and traditional wooden toys distributed by Holz Toys from their warehouse in Falmouth.

Meanwhile, at the John Lewis store on Oxford Street you can buy exclusive buttons designed by Mook Buttons in Helston. Round the corner at The Conran Shop you can pick up the latest in interior accessories produced by Block in St. Germans.

Loans and grants helped these companies produce top quality marketing materials which meant they could approach new customers with added confidence.

South West Investment Group has committed over £1 million to 126 Cornish businesses since the Objective One Business Development Funds were launched in May 2001.

The funds are aimed at businesses that have growth potential but are unable to raise sufficient money from conventional sources. In order to qualify, applicants must show that the assistance will lead to increased profitability and job creation, and that there will be a benefit to the Cornish economy.