Middlesbrough-based The Qualis Collection Ltd has secured a six-figure investment from NPIF II – NEL Smaller Loans, which is managed by NEL Fund Managers as part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II). Founded by North East entrepreneur Joe Nicholson, The Qualis Collection supplies premium solid brass fixtures and fittings along with a vast range of kitchen and basin taps designed to enhance any home, serving customers seeking quality, style, and reliability across the UK.
The investment will be used to expand their range through additional stock orders of both new and existing products, while also funding the development of bespoke stock forecasting software to enhance inventory management and ensure efficient stock control. In addition, the funding will support increased marketing activity during this exciting period of growth.
The idea for the company was born when founder Joe Nicholson encountered a challenge during his own kitchen renovation – finding high-quality, luxurious handles and knobs that matched his family’s style without exceeding their budget. Recognising a gap in the market, Joe set out to create a brand that would make premium design accessible to every home.
Joe Nicholson commented on the investment: “Mike Guellard was an absolute pleasure to work with from start to finish. His professionalism, clear communication, and attention to detail made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I also received fantastic support from Matthew at Pulse Accountancy, who was always on hand to provide guidance and answer any questions promptly. Together, they made the process incredibly straightforward and efficient.”
Mike Guellard, Senior Investment Executive at NEL Fund Managers, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Joe and The Qualis Collection through this first investment from NEL. The business has already built a strong reputation for quality and craftsmanship, and this funding will help accelerate its next phase of growth. With clear plans to expand its product range and increase its customer base, The Qualis Collection is an exciting North East success story with significant potential.”
Sarah Newbould, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank, said: “Middlesbrough is home to some truly incredible businesses, and Joe’s work in growing The Qualis Collection is just one example of this. Building a business with national reach from right here in Tees Valley shows that location isn’t a barrier – it’s a real advantage. That’s exactly why NPIF II is backing ambitious companies across the North and helping places like Tees Valley to thrive.”
The £660m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIFII) covers the entire North of England and provides loans from £25k to £2m and equity investment up to £5m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to start up, scale up or stay ahead.
The purpose of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II is to drive sustainable economic growth by supporting innovation and creating local opportunity for new and growing businesses across the North of England. The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II will increase the supply and diversity of early-stage finance for the North’s smaller businesses, providing funds to firms that might otherwise not receive investment and help to break down barriers in access to finance.
NEL Fund Managers are also managing the NPIF II – NEL Debt Finance Fund which offers Debt Finance from £100,000 to £2m to established businesses looking to realise their growth potential.
For more information about NEL, please visit www.nel.co.uk or contact the Investment Team on 0345 369 7007.