We've installed our North East saunas in The Shard, Premier League football clubs, and celebrities' homes
A Durham-based sauna retailer and manufacturer, which has worked on landmark projects including the UK's highest sauna at The Shard, has secured a six-figure funding package, enabling it to develop a larger, production-focused facility in the region.
Finnmark Sauna, which will celebrate its tenth anniversary next March, is also set to create new jobs with the funding, helping it to meet rising demand across the UK and internationally.
Jake Newport, founder and chief executive of Finnmark Sauna, said: "This funding from Barclays is a real vote of confidence in Finnmark and in the North East. It enables us to scale responsibly and invest in innovations and technologies that will keep our operations robust for years to come.
“Whilst we have an international reach and a market-leading UK presence, we are proud to be building a business that is growing in the region for the region."
During the year, the sauna business has increased its client base across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, while doubling its headcount. It also completed a number of prominent projects, including the UK's first floating sauna in Liverpool Docks.
In addition, installations were completed for Premier League football clubs along with well-known public figures in television, music and film. Newport added: "We are heading into our tenth year with real momentum. This funding allows us to build on everything we have achieved so far and move into the next chapter with confidence.
“The support we have received from Barclays and our local community gives us a strong foundation as we continue to grow."