MEIF investment the jet fuel for aerospace expansion

Tamworth-headquartered logistics firm, OnLogistics Ltd (OnLogistics), is set to expand a number of its divisions, after receiving £350k from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF).

As a result of this finance, provided through MEIF Debt finance, operated by Maven Capital Partners (Maven), OnLogistics will hire 14 more employees across its two Midlands sites after recently announcing its occupancy of a new 20,000 sq. ft. facility at Elmdon Trading Estate – strategically creating a second base close to Birmingham International Airport.

Following a three-year contract win with Rolls Royce Control Systems, these new hires will prove critical in the firm’s bid to meet increased workloads associated with larger global contracts.

Lord Digby Jones, Chairman of OnLogistics Ltd, who invested his own capital into the company in 2016, said: “Timed to perfection, this funding boost for OnLogistics will provide the company with the extra impetus to enter new markets and grow its customer reach via three distinctive brands; OnLogistics Aerospace, OnLogistics Distribution and Fulfilment and OnLogistics Nursery.

“The MEIF Debt Finance offered by Maven not only provides ambitious SMEs across the Midlands with important funding, but also strategic and operational advice delivered by the investment team on the ground. Alongside other members of the OnLogistics management team, I look forward to driving the business forward in this new and exciting chapter.”

The firm in recent years has diversified its supply chain offering to now include warehousing, product packaging and distribution. Demonstrating these wider capabilities is the firm’s entrance into other high-growth sectors, including baby travel accessories, after partnering with manufacturer Apramo, that sees OnLogistics manage its domestic and international product distribution.

Outside of recruitment, this round of finance from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund will see the rapidly growing firm make a series of improvements to its distribution service, upgrading its IT systems to unlock further efficiency through order barcoding, electronic tagging and satellite tracking of vehicles.

The funding will also allow OnLogistics to roll out in-house developed technology that integrates with its customers’ e-commerce platform, creating a seamless customer experience, as well as develop next-generation packaging, helping to grow and diversify their existing customer base.

Nick Bennet, Managing Director of OnLogistics said: “We are delighted to have the backing and support of MEIF and Maven. It is a great opportunity for OnLogistics to execute its ambitious growth strategy, expand the team and unlock several market opportunities.”