Manchester-based sign manufacturer and supplier, Astra Signs and Graphics, is ready to enter a new chapter of growth and development. This comes following a number of recent exciting changes within the firm and funding support from RBS.
Supported by funding from Royal Bank of Scotland, the company is focused on achieving growth of 25% in the next two years. Astra has relocated its head offices from its previous site in Manchester’s Northern Quarter to a newly re-developed 15,000 sq ft building on Trafford Park. The move has enabled the firm to create an enhanced and more efficient production facility and has seen it invest in the latest technology and equipment available to enrich its product offering.
Astra Signs and Graphics Director David Derbyshire has also successfully completed an MBO of the company, having full control of the business. The Royal Bank of Scotland provided the company with funding to support costs of the management buyout. David shares his gratitude to RBS and their support for local businesses and growth in the area.
“I couldn’t be happier with the support that I have received from Robert Taylor at Royal Bank of Scotland throughout the MBO and property relocation process. He has been on hand throughout to provide assistance when it has been needed and understands the company and our future plans. I have really enjoyed working with him and look forward to continuing our working relationship.”
Established in 1985 by David, Astra Signs and Graphics is one of the most experienced sign manufacturers in the UK, supplying a range of businesses from small retailers to large multinational blue chip companies. Achieving an annual turnover of £4m, the business manufactures a range of high quality bespoke signage of wildly different shapes, sizes and technicalities, digital signage, POS and bespoke fabrication products, offering a complete service from ideas and planning concepts straight through to artwork, design, surveying, manufacture, installation and delivery and maintenance. Astra Signs and Graphics employs 50 people locally.
Royal Bank of Scotland Relationship Director, Robert Taylor said:
“I am pleased that we have been able to support David with funding to aid the MBO and assist with the relocation into new premises. The investments that have been made have ensured that the firm is well placed to offer the latest products as well as increase production volume. We enjoy working with David and wish him the best for this latest chapter in his very successful company’s history.”
RBS is keen to support Stockport and North West businesses and helped Astra Signs, ensuring working capital was sufficient for future growth and provided a security solution to enable the relocation.