Specialist Furniture Business Set For Continued Success

July 3, 2025 Off By Zaki M

Saltaire Furniture Maker Expands Operations with Shipley Towns Fund Grant

A Saltaire-based furniture and prop manufacturing business has purchased new equipment following a £4,080 grant from the Shipley Towns Fund, enabling expansion of production capabilities.

The news follows on from an announcement earlier this week that saw Shipley’s Specialised Covers Limited also benefit from a Towns Fund grant.

Business Development

John Driscoll, who operates under the name ‘Ginger Maker’, is a designer and maker specialising in bespoke furniture, props and sets. He runs his own practice and has co-founded ‘Drewit Studio’, a specialist set design and prop making company.

The grant, combined with additional business investment, funded the purchase of a new ‘Spartan 1325’ CNC Machine. The equipment automates elements of the production process, allowing faster furniture production while maintaining quality standards. Driscoll will also offer CNC services to clients in the local area and beyond.

Business Impact

Driscoll explained:

“Since I launched, it’s been a privilege to create custom pieces for a growing range of clients. The new CNC machine will enable me to be more efficient without any compromise on standards and to take on more work. Ultimately the investment means one day I can look to expand my operation. It’s exciting to see what the future holds.”

Official Response

Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Transport and Planning, Councillor Alex Ross Shaw, said:

“Ginger Maker is based at Salts mill in Saltaire, an area already thriving with creative talent and which boasts a wonderfully supportive artistic network. The success and growth of specialist, creative and skilled businesses like this is something for us all to take pride in.”

Gill Thornton, Chair of the Shipley Towns Fund, added:

“It’s so positive to see how this funding is making such a significant positive impact for local businesses. Grants ranging from £1,500 to £315,000 are still available for businesses within or looking to move to the Shipley Towns Fund area. The Ginger Maker is a great example of the success of our thriving business community and others are welcome to apply for both funding and to access support.”

Funding Programme Details

The Shipley Towns Fund’s Capital Assistance to Business Growth Programme has supported various local business projects, including facility expansion, modernisation and equipment upgrades.

The programme provides grants ranging from £1,500 to £315,000 for businesses within or relocating to the Shipley Towns Fund area. Funding is available until March 2026.