Kazoo Printing Solutions in Cannock has doubled its production capacity after securing a £100,000 interest-free loan through Staffordshire County Council's Scale Up Staffordshire initiative. The business was the first to benefit from the new loan programme, which is delivered through the Staffordshire Business and Environment Network (SBEN).

The funding enabled Kazoo to purchase a new UV LED hybrid printer. The investment has increased the business's printing output, reduced running costs, and allowed the company to print on a wider range of materials, including environmentally friendly substrates.

Simon Talbot, Director of Kazoo PSG Ltd, said the printer has already opened commercial doors previously closed to the business. "Previously, we have been turning large jobs away due to timelines, but this investment now opens these doors. The second day after the install, a new account was won," he said.

As a result of increased workload, Kazoo is recruiting for a full-time position, with a second job likely to follow. Talbot added that the loan has significantly accelerated his growth plans. "Without the loan, it would have taken another year to save for the printer."

How the loan scheme works

Scale Up Staffordshire offers interest-free loans of up to £100,000 to eligible small and medium-sized businesses across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. Loans cover up to 80 per cent of project costs, with businesses contributing the remaining 20 per cent. Applicants must have been trading for at least three years and be investing in capital projects that support business growth and efficiency.

Talbot praised the application process. "The process was very smooth and there were no issues at all. The initial loan process call and advice along the way made it stress free. This was our first time applying for a loan like this, so it really helped."

Martin Murray, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: "Kazoo's success shows exactly what the Scale Up Staffordshire Loan Programme is designed to achieve – helping ambitious businesses invest in the equipment and technology they need to grow. We want to help more Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent businesses unlock their potential, improve productivity and create new opportunities for growth."

For more information about eligibility or to apply, visit the Staffordshire Business and Environment Network (SBEN) website.