Funding boost is right on time for Walsall watch repair business
A watch repair business in Walsall town centre is looking to grow the business thanks to a £3,500 grant.
Hand of Time, located in the Old Victorian Arcade in Walsall town Centre has received a £3,500 funding boost from Walsall Business Support to purchase a computerised engraving machine.
The brand new Gravograph IS200 will allow the business to offer an in-store engraving service for customers, generating an anticipated additional 25 per cent of revenue.
Established in 2010, the business currently provides watch, clock and jewellery repairs in addition to hand engraving services.
It is hoped that the new computerised engraving machine will make the business a one-stop-shop for customers, reducing the need for customers to shop elsewhere for engraving.
Hand of Time owner Andrew Plested said: “The funding will allow the business to move forward and offer additional services.
“I hope that by modernising the business and investing in new equipment it will encourage more people to shop at independent retailers and attract new customers.
“As the business grows, I plan to offer apprenticeships and provide young people with the chance to learn a trade in watch repair and mechanical clock repairs.
"This is a skill that is slowly becoming extinct, and I want to be able to pass on my knowledge to the next generation of watch repairers and engravers."
Walsall Business Support provide grants and a free training needs analysis to businesses looking to generate growth, create employment or shape training opportunities for the borough of Walsall.
Using an online form on the WBS website, bids can be submitted by businesses needing investment in a new project or a company wanting to improve skills.
For more information, please go to: https://walsallbusinesssupport.co.uk/
