Yorkshire-based AME Group, a 3-D printing and product development consultancy, has secured a £750,000 investment from NPIF-Mercia Equity Finance, to launch AME-3D, a 3-D printing and low volume production brand.

This investment by will enable the company to implement key growth plans, which includes the recruitment of 10 new people, and the purchase of new equipment.

Ian Jones, AME Group founder and finance director, said: “New technologies such as 3-D printing have opened up new possibilities in product development and testing. As a result, the rapid prototyping market is expanding year-on-year.

“With the new AME-3D brand fully dedicated to unlocking the potential that 3-D printing and low volume production offers, our team can support UK businesses with longer-term growth and with their post-Covid bounce-back plans.”

Maurice Disasi of Mercia added: “AME has performed strongly since its inception 20 years ago and has established itself as one of the leaders in its field. As the company embarks on a new period of growth, this funding will enable it to take advantage of the exciting opportunities in the rapid prototyping market and to widen its customer base.”

Sean Hutchinson of British Business Bank said: “AME is a growing Northern business working with a strong portfolio of respected brands across a range of sectors. NPIF is proud to play a part in helping businesses like AME reach the next stage in their growth journey.

“By investing in ambitious successful companies, we are helping to create new jobs, safeguard others and support regional economic growth allowing business communities to fulfil their potential.”