Established in 2010, Surf Works is a leading creative agency based in Kidderminster. The creative company specialises in graphic design, print, large format and promotions. In 2018, the company launched Surf Stitched, the clothing arm of the company, supplying decorated garments, workwear and merchandise.  

In 2021, Surf Works invested in a Direct to Film (DTF) machine with the help of the Proof of Concept grant. Surf Works received 40% funding towards the cost of the machinery. This support enabled the company to benefit from new capabilities and efficiencies.

The DTF Machine works by printing fabric ink direct onto a transfer film. This method is particularly flexible meaning that the design can be pressed onto almost any material. Whilst this is a popular way to print in countries such as Japan, there are not many companies in the UK that have this capability.

How the grant has helped transform their business

Since investing in the machine, Surf Works have benefited from reduced lead times, reduced costs and improved quality. What would use to take several minutes to print a logo can now take seconds.

The efficiencies the machinery has had on this type of print method has boosted their ability to fulfil larger orders at a faster rate and the company has even seen an increase in sales not only around the UK but also overseas.

Chris Parkes, the Director of Surf Works Said: “The direct to film printer is something we have been keen to invest in having seen the benefits it could achieve for our business; however, we thought it would be something out of our reach. We came across the Proof of Concept Grant through the Worcestershire Growth Hub. Once we learnt about the grant funding, we just felt it was the perfect opportunity to invest in this innovative machinery. 

The impact the new machine has had on our business has been monumental, we have been able to take on huge orders that before would not have been easy for us to achieve. It has broadened our horizons and has opened opportunities not only in the UK but overseas. 

Experience with the application process

I would strongly recommend using the council’s business support and grant funding opportunities they have available; the whole process was easy and the guidance we received through the grant process was invaluable”.

Development and innovation following the grant

Worcestershire’s 'Proof of Concept' programme was funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and was designed to support local businesses to develop innovative new products and processes. ERDF funding has now been replaced by the United Kingdom Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and is funding the new Innovation Worcestershire grant.