WSR Medical Solutions Secures £350k Loan for Global Expansion
Deal News | Feb 21, 2025 | Mercia Fund Management (Mercia Ventures)
WSR Medical Solutions, a preeminent UK manufacturer of X-ray protection gear, is aiming for global market expansion with a £350,000 loan from NPIF II Mercia Debt Finance, managed by Mercia Debt under the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II). Originally founded in 1860 by WS Rothband, and now directed by Paul Dixon, the company provides lead aprons to over 700 hospitals under the Rothband brand and supplies major veterinary chains. The firm intends to grow its 15% international sales by developing distributor networks and investing in new printing equipment to enhance its product range and agility. This is the third funding round from Mercia Debt, which initially supported the buy-out of the family-owned business in 2015. The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, with a £660 million capacity, aims to stimulate economic growth across Northern England by fostering innovation and providing finance diversification for SMEs.
Sectors
- Medical Equipment
- Finance
Geography
- United Kingdom – WSR Medical Solutions is based in Haslingden, UK, and its primary market includes over 700 hospitals across the UK.
- Northern England – The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II focuses on funding businesses across Northern England, which includes Lancashire, where WSR Medical Solutions is located.
Industry
- Medical Equipment – The article discusses WSR Medical Solutions, a company supplying X-ray protection wear and equipment, falling under the medical equipment industry.
- Finance – The involvement of NPIF II and Mercia Debt in providing funding to WSR Medical Solutions involves financial services focused on supporting business growth.
Financials
- £350,000 – Loan provided by NPIF II Mercia Debt Finance to WSR Medical Solutions for expansion.
- £660 million – The total capacity of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II aimed at supporting SME growth.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| WSR Medical Solutions | Target Company | Company | A UK-based manufacturer of X-ray protection wear known for its Rothband brand. |
| Paul Dixon | Managing Director | People | Managing Director of WSR Medical Solutions, former employee, and qualified radiographer. |
| Mercia Fund Management (Mercia Ventures) | Private Equity Firm | Company | Manages Mercia Debt, providing financial backing for WSR Medical Solutions' expansion. |
| Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II) | Funding Provider | Company | Provides loans and equity investments to support business growth across Northern England. |