Thermmark Ltd, founded in 2013 and based in Congleton, has built its reputation as a specialist UK manufacturer, supplier and installer of high quality thermoplastic surface markings. From local authorities and schools to commercial contractors and exporting to 33 international markets, including Australia, their largest export destination, Thermmark has grown through a blend of technical expertise, product quality and a strong commitment to social responsibility.
Alongside commercial success, the business places inclusion at its core. Partnerships with Cheshire College, Springfield School and Cheshire East Council provide apprenticeships, supported internships and employment opportunities for young adults with complex needs. Combined with multiple SME awards, including winning the FSB Export Award two years running, Thermmark is recognised for resilience, innovation and culture as much as for manufacturing excellence.
The Challenge
Like many UK manufacturers, Thermmark has weathered a tough few years: global supply chain disruption, rising costs, workforce pressures and shifting political landscapes. Rather than focusing on the factors beyond their control, the Thermmark team doubled down on what they could influence, strengthening infrastructure, protecting jobs, creating new opportunities and preparing the business for future growth.
But when they met BIC Innovation in June 2024, they brought forward a challenge unlike anything they had tackled before. The team had a bold vision: to design and build a completely new piece of equipment, which they feel is capable of transforming how their industry operates.
They knew what they wanted to achieve, they just didn’t know who could help them make it real.
The Support
What stood out to Thermmark from the very beginning was BIC’s approach. Instead of simply offering a list of potential partners, the team invested the time to understand the business properly, visiting several times, asking the right questions and staying committed to finding not just a solution, but the right one.
Support from Cheshire East Council and the Hub, particularly Rachel and Mark, also played a key role in guiding Thermmark through a successful grant application process.
BIC Advisor, Gwyn William’s involvement became a turning point. After visiting a specialist company in Wales, he quickly recognised their technical capability and potential cultural alignment with Thermmark. His intuition proved correct. When the two businesses met, it was immediately clear they were the perfect fit. Thermmark is now collaborating closely with this partner to develop the new equipment, a project they believe has the potential to revolutionise the thermoplastic industry. Details remain confidential until IP approval, but the opportunity is significant.
A follow up visit by BIC’s Project Manager, Hilary Centeleghe, and Matt from the Advanced Manufacturing & Research Centre (AMRC) explored where further support could help drive efficiencies and futureproof processes. This led to a feasibility study proposal and an introduction to Igiri, one of AMRC’s Senior Manufacturing Engineers.
Through this two-pronged approach, one driving future innovation, the other strengthening continuous improvement, BIC has helped Thermmark build both momentum and capability.
The Results
While the greatest measurable impacts will be shared once the IP process is complete, the value of BIC’s support is already clear.
“The real impact hasn’t just come from the introductions or the advice, but from the persistence, the genuine understanding of our business, and the commitment to helping us succeed. That level of support has enabled us to take the first meaningful steps toward turning an innovative idea into a real opportunity for equipment development. We’re genuinely excited about what comes next.”
– Neville Robson, Thermmark Ltd
As Thermmark reflect more broadly: the right support doesn’t just solve a problem – it helps businesses see new possibilities, pursue ambitious ideas and move forward with confidence, knowing they don’t have to take the journey alone.
Funding Acknowledgement
The Cheshire East Productivity Improvement Programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, delivered by AMRC and BIC Innovation in partnership with Cheshire East Council. With thanks also to Mark Bayley-Smyth and the Hub team for their guidance and support.
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