Skipton backs pioneering plastics innovation

A Lancashire-based company pioneering sustainable plastics manufacturing has secured six-figure funding to accelerate its growth.

North Yorkshire-based Skipton Business Finance has supported Sigma Polymers in developing a 100 per cent recycled plastic baling wire.

Bosses say the cash will enable the company to “speed up the product development process” and help recycle all production waste, ensuring only sustainable materials are used.

The initiative was sparked when Sheffield-based D R Baling sought to incorporate recycled content into its existing wire production. 

Sigma Polymers and its business development manager John Mills took the concept further, crafting a fully recycled wire, which has now been nominated for the 2025 Earthshot Prize.

John said: “When D R Baling approached us, we saw the wider picture and an opportunity in the market to not only revolutionise it but create a product which can be used to dramatically reduce carbon emissions and create a sustainable future for our children, which is something I am very passionate about.

“We turned to Skipton Business Finance because we not only needed an agile funding solution to speed up the product development process, but we wanted a lender that understands our business and fully buys into our vision of creating a more sustainable alternative from the traditional steel baling wire.  

Kent Broomhead, relationship manager for Skipton Business Finance, added: “The baling wire is a game-changer for the waste management industry and has placed Sigma Polymers as a true environmental champion, which aligns perfectly with our undertaking, as a business committed to supporting sustainable initiatives within our client base.

“We work across a diverse range of businesses over a variety of sectors. 

“However, to be able to align the core business values of Sigma Polymers with those of the Skipton Group, which we are a part of, gives us a real sense of satisfaction.

“We share their commitment to sustainability and fully support John and his team with the development of this innovative green product.”

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