Innovative approach gains the backing of business link

Telford based i2r Packaging Solutions Ltd has secured £0.8m of 'Access to Finance' funding through Business Link, enabling the company to invest in new facilities and create 11 new jobs.

i2r, standing for 'innovation to reality' produces premium, smooth wall aluminium foil containers for the food industry. Only launched last year, i2r already supplies key retailers as well as food manufacturers across the UK.

Its comprehensive range of products, using up to 25% less material than competitors, provides an environmentally friendly alternative in a highly competitive market place. With its unique design, i2r is able to provide robust foil trays while using less material.

Commenting on the funding from Business Link, Chief Executive officer, Peter Reay, said;

"At a time when there is a national focus on reducing food packaging and 'food miles' we have entered the market place with a range of products that will help both producers and retailers to do just that.

"Our products use considerably less material while maintaining their strength and our central location, adjacent to the UK's motorway network, enables us to respond quickly to changes in demand and customers needs without travelling or flying our products long distances.

"The funding from Business Link has enabled us to install new state of the art production lines at our premises in Telford and in response to this, 11 new jobs have been created."

Business Link advisor, Alison Bradley added;

"i2r is exactly the type of business that our Access to Finance scheme is aimed at. Via Business Link West Midlands i2r has not only been able to raise finance to support their ambitious growth plans but they have also had access to expert consultancy support through Wenham Major Chartered Accountants, assisting with the application for funding.

"As a result of our comprehensive support an innovative new manufacturing business has started and new jobs have been created within the region too."

Notes to Editors:

· i2r Packaging Solutions Ltd was established in June 2007 by chief executive officer, Peter Reay, commercial development director, Jon West and chief financial officer, Richard Chaplin.

· i2r’s main business objective is to provide innovative market leading packaging designs for the food sector.