Jobs boost for Calderdale thanks to funding from Yorkshire Bank

18 September 2015

Truarc Pipework Services, an Elland based company which designs, manufactures and installs heavy-duty pipework for large commercial buildings, has big plans for the future.

The company is looking to double its workforce in the next three years after securing a significant funding package from Yorkshire Bank. The deal was arranged by Alan Richardson, Relationship Manager at the Bank’s West Yorkshire Business and Private Banking Centre.

The business, which became a limited company in 2008, currently employs 10 sub-contractors, three directors and five full-time employees. The package will allow Truarc to take on more work and to update plant machinery and vehicles.

John Lawless Sr. started the company in 1984 and retired in 2007. At that point, his son and daughter - John Lawless Jr. and Tracy Bakes – took charge, alongside John’s right-hand man Andrew Thewliss.

John Lawless Jr. joined the business a few years after his sister Tracy. First, he embarked on a rugby league career which saw him become a Challenge Cup winner in 1998 as a member of the Sheffield Eagles. He also represented both England and Ireland at international level.

Company Director Tracy, who started working for the company almost 20 years ago, said: “We have a long-standing relationship with Yorkshire Bank and will continue to work closely with them as our company grows.

“The recession was difficult for many businesses and ours was no different. Now things are picking up again. We are able to update our practices and hire more workers on a contractual basis. Before, we had to turn work down because we didn’t have the capacity. Now this will no longer be the case as we have a cushion to grow our company.”

Andy Davidson, Head of Yorkshire Bank’s Business and Private Banking Centre in West Yorkshire, said: “Truarc Limited weathered the storm of a tough financial climate and are now more successful than ever. We are delighted to support the business as it continues to expand its remit and workforce.

“With economic conditions continuing to improve, Yorkshire Bank is committed to supporting ambitious businesses across the region. Our specialist knowledge of a variety of sectors gives small and medium sized businesses the speed and flexibility they require to fulfil their growth ambitions.”

Yorkshire Bank recently launched a series of lending initiatives for UK businesses, designed to encourage growth for new and existing customers. As well as capital-free periods for up to five years, the Bank also introduced high percentage funding for businesses to purchase trading premises.

Yorkshire Bank strengthened its support for UK SMEs by becoming the first to partner with the British Business Bank under its ENABLE Guarantees scheme. Up to £125m of new lending by Yorkshire Bank will help more small businesses achieve their growth ambitions.