A Nottingham-based maker of fork-lift truck batteries has increased its workforce and output, supported by a six-figure finance package from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking. Fortis Battery Care was founded in 2011 and counts Aldi, John Lewis and Toyota among its customers (www.fortisbattery.com).

The business secured the £390,000 funding from Lloyds to buy a pneumatic manipulator, which allows it to build batteries faster. It has since added eight people to its 37-strong team and expects to increase its annual turnover of £2.8 million by 10%.

Company director Andrew Clarke said: “Our business has grown significantly since 2011. It’s great that we can now invest in our workforce and machinery — and reach out to both local and national clients through marketing strategies.

“We wouldn’t have been able to take these steps without the invaluable support of Lloyds Bank, who fully understand our ambition and business ethic.”