Onyx Joinery, a traditional woodworking business located in Warwickshire, is owned, and operated by two best friends who share over 50 years of combined experience in the industry. Specialising in traditional woodworking, Philip and Lee have built a reputation for quality and craftsmanship.
While the joinery industry faces challenges in attracting young talent to carry on the trade. Onyx Joinery decided to modernise their operations with a state-of-the-art CNC machine.
The different skill set required to operate and program the CNC machine is likely to entice a new generation of workers who are interested in both traditional joinery and modern technology. By learning the craft of woodworking alongside advanced CNC techniques, young recruits can gain a comprehensive skill set, making Onyx Joinery an appealing place to start and grow their careers.
To fast-track the purchase of the CNC machine the company’s owners decided to turn to Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT) for assistance. CWRT was able to offer them the Duplex Investment Fund, which offers a unique combination of a loan and up to 40% grant. This grant element was particularly attractive, as it could be utilised in multiple ways to support the business.
Thanks to the Duplex, Onyx Joinery was able not only to afford the new CNC machinery but also to secure their own jobs and ensure the continuation of the long tradition of woodworking mastery.
The CNC machine has also dramatically increased their production speed and opened up opportunities for more bespoke work that would have previously taken days to complete by hand, unlocking entirely new markets for the business.
Philip and Lee said, “We are incredibly grateful for the support they received from David, the loans officer handling their case, and for the role that the Duplex has played in future-proofing our company.”
With CWRT’s support, Onyx Joinery is now well-positioned to continue thriving in the ever-evolving woodworking industry, blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
Learn more about Duplex Investment Fund and how it could support your business below.