New Silk Route

New Silk Route is a Chinese Digital Marketing Agency based in Midsomer Norton providing marketing services to British organisations and businesses targeting the expanding Chinese market. Google is blocked in China, but New Silk Route designs websites that can be viewed by customers there and provides bespoke marketing, social media and business translation services.

Founder Yang Ding has benefited from Invest in B&NES’ Universal Business Support programme, as well as the WECA Migrant Business Support programme:

The support I’ve received has been fantastic and helped me to grow the business. The HR training was invaluable. During the pandemic, staff had to work from home and I found it difficult to manage them from a distance. I now have a clear understanding of processes and was given invaluable tips on supporting staff with mental health issues.

MMA Architectural Systems

Based in Midsomer Norton, MMA Architectural System design and supply specialist metal architectural products for the construction industry. The company worked with the West of England Growth Hub in applying for a Green Business Grant.

The successful grant allowed MMA to replace their existing single-glazed windows with A-Rated double-glazing and to replace the internal-grade external door to the warehouse with glazed aluminium doors.

These measures reduced building heat loss and draughts, removed reliance on portable heater usage, and resulted in reduced energy consumption in a more comfortable working environment.

Pukka Herbs

Sustainable food and drink company Pukka Herbs create organic herbal teas and health supplements, with a real focus on ethical and sustainable business practices. In 2018 company moved their headquarters from Bristol to the Chocolate Factory in Keynsham following a major redevelopment of the famous Somerdale site.

Officers at the Invest in B&NES Team supported the redevelopment and marketing of the Chocolate Factory, and welcomed Pukka Herbs as the first tenant. The exemplary office fit-out was in keeping with their sustainable ethos. Pukka has since won numerous awards including Best Sustainable Tea Brand at the 2022 Marie Claire Awards.

IVC Evidensia

IVC Evidensia (formerly Independent Vet Care) is the fastest growing vetinary group in the UK. The company moved its headquarters to the Chocolate Factory in Keynsham in 2018, taking two floors of the exceptional redevelopment at the Somerdale site previously occupied by Cadbury’s. TWe supported the redevelopment and marketing of the site, which now provides a new office quarter for businesses in the district.

The company has grown to be one of Bath & North East Somerset’s largest private sector employers, and has also seen huge growth in Europe, expanding into Norway, Finland, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland.