Hampshire-based Percival Aviation Ltd hopes to create up to 30 new jobs in the next five years after its relocation to a 40,000ft² purpose-built factory in Fareham.

The privately owned company (www.percivalaviation.com) launched a global expansion plan at the beginning of last year, securing a £6.85 million funding deal with Santander and opening an office in Dallas to support its growing client base in the USA, Canada and South America.

Chief executive Neil Percival said: “This new facility provides a significant and stable foundation for the business to continue its 40-year-plus history.

"It will provide an environment where the people within the business can develop, learn new skills and prosper.

At the heart of everything the business stands for is the customer, and the investment we made will enhance our offer to our ever-expanding customer base throughout the world.”

Managing director Chris Bench said: “This new facility follows our group strategy to grow the business year on year. It will give us the room and resources to introduce new technologies and equipment, enabling us to offer our customers additional options with their aircraft interior requirements.”

Founded in 1978, Percival Aviation designs, manufactures and certifies aircraft interior products; its customers include Flybe, British Airways, EasyJet, American Airlines and Qantas. The new factory has doubled its production capabilities.