ATWELL International, a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialist equipment for lifts in locations from the Houses of Parliament to the Harry Potter movie sets, is expanding following £600,000 funding from Santander Corporate & Commercial.

The company from Ball Mill Top Business Park, Grimley, near Worcester is targeting a significant increase in new global clients as well as further penetration in its domestic UK market.

Founded in 1996 and now managed by former RAF serviceman Russell Walker, its core products are the design and manufacturing of its own patented lift brakes, along with safety and hoisting equipment. Its bespoke lift equipment can be found in prestigious buildings such as the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and St James Palace, and in the film industry on sets such as Harry Potter and Sky Fall, as well as Universal Studio’s roller-coasters. The company also supplies special braking systems to the Royal Navy’s new aircraft carriers.

Managing director Mr Walker said: "These are exciting times for the business as we expand our operations across the world, as well as increasing sales in the UK. Expansion into China is an interesting prospect for us as it clearly offers enormous potential for a specialist firm like Atwell. Santander has provided excellent support to our business, both locally and internationally, and we’re delighted to be working with the team.”

John Hyde, relationship director, Santander Corporate & Commercial, added: "The management team at Atwell International has a clear vision for the business. This is a company with tremendous potential in the global market. I’m fully confident that they will continue to succeed in this endeavour. I wish them every success for the future and I’m delighted that Santander is part of it.”