A LIGHTING firm is looking forward to a bright future after securing a major investment package.

A £550,000 injection is helping Barrowford-based Ipris Holdings expand and take on new customers.

The Lancashire County Investment Fund, the Lancashire Rosebud Fund and the Midland Enterprise Fund are investing £400,000 as part of the package. All three are managed by Enterprise Ventures Limited, the investment arm of Enterprise plc.

"By utilising more than one fund we have been able to put together a package which we are confident will reap rewards for Ipris and create new jobs," said David Taylor, Enterprise plc's chief executive.

Ipris, founded in 1987, now has an annual turnover of more than £10 million.

The group comprises Impris International, which distributes lighting products and soft furnishings, and Derbyshire-based Nuthall Lighting which manufactures and assembles lighting products.

Customers include high street names such as FADS, Next and BhS.

"With the financial backing of the funds we can move forward with confidence as we invest in the long term future of the company," said Terry Robbins, joint managing director.

The Lancashire County Investment Fund and Lancashire Rosebud Fund were established by Lancashire County Council to invest in businesses in the county with job creation and growth prospects.

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