THE success of a North-East engraving business has led to a move to larger premises and plans to increase staff numbers.

Stockton-based Engraving Studios is leaving Stockton Business Centre and moving to a new unit at Arkgrove Industrial Estate near Portrack Lane, which will double the size of the company.

Starting off in a garden shed five years ago, the business was set up by husband and wife team, Andy and Mandy Blackett.

Now the couple have a team of five – with plans for further job creation – and have moved to the larger unit to cope with the volume of work.

“It’s quite a scary move to go from being a small start-up business to the next stage,” said Mr Blackett.

“And especially when it came to negotiating a lease for the first time, which is why we decided to get some expert advice.”

Mr and Mrs Blackett worked with Gwen Jones from Durham-based EMG Solicitors. “It was fantastic to have someone who could explain every stage of the process and who helped us negotiate a lease for the next ten years,” said Mr Blackett.

“Our previous offices had been a council-run centre for start ups where it was quite flexible so as this was our first experience of renting proper commercial premises, it was really important that we got it right.

“Gwen was brilliant in supporting us and even the landlord said he wished every transaction was as seamless as this one.”

The company – which specialises in traditional deep mill engraving rather than scratch or laser etching because it is longer lasting and more durable – is now set to move in the next week.

Gwen Jones, associate solicitor at EMG Solicitors which is based at Abbeywoods Business Park, Durham, said she was delighted to have helped the company on the next stage of its growth.

“Engraving Studios is an exciting business and it’s been a pleasure to be part of their expansion,” she said.

“Negotiating a lease on a commercial property can be quite daunting so I’m very pleased that I’ve been able to guide Andy and Mandy through the transaction. I wish them every success with their expansion and look forward to seeing them succeed in their new base."