Thanks to a £50k loan Leeds-based optician and eyewear business Eye Room has invested in stock and staff.
The money has come from NPIF through the Business Enterprise Fund and FFE Microfinance, part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.
Eye Room is owned and run by husband-and-wife team Tomas and Hafiya Oppedal, who turned to Business Enterprise Fund for the second time, having previously received a Start Up Loan from it.
This investment has resulted in the creation of one full-time job and one part-time job, while simultaneously safeguarding three existing positions.
Tomas said: “Our partnership with BEF has been instrumental in realising our growth aspirations. This NPIF loan has empowered us to better serve our community and expand our horizons.”
Mark Iley at BEF said: “Start-up and scale-up phases are two critical stages of business growth. We take immense pride in supporting businesses like Eye Room whose dedication to excellence is truly commendable. We are delighted to be part of their growth journey and wish them every success.”
Debbie Sorby, Senior Manager, British Business Bank said: “Eye Room’s ability to bring high quality services at affordable prices is crucial in the current economic climate, and it is something everyone can benefit from. The Fund is dedicated to investing in businesses serving the heart of its community, and meeting needs with accessible, high quality and essential products.
“With an increase in digital working, the demand for optometry services is growing, not least for products at affordable prices. As Eye Room expands it will inevitably increase its staff numbers, and the investment will play an important role in facilitating this job creation and security. We look forward to helping Tomas and Hafiya expand their customer base across Yorkshire and beyond.”
