LIMB-art, a Conwy-based manufacturer of personalised prosthetic leg covers, has cut production times from two days to just two hours after investing in new laser-cutting technology. The increase in efficiency is helping the business keep pace with growing demand while continuing to manufacture its products in north Wales.
The company was founded by former Paralympian Dr Mark Williams and his wife Rachael to create bespoke prosthetic covers that combine functionality with personal expression. LIMB-art is the only company in Europe that creates prosthetic leg covers and the only manufacturer of injection-moulded covers in the world.
Support from Conwy County Borough Council's Supporting Local Business Key Fund, part of the wider UK Shared Prosperity Fund, helped LIMB-art invest in the new equipment and increase its production capacity.
The improved productivity has also allowed the business to respond to increased demand from NHS contracts as well as international distributors, while improving accuracy, reducing waste and ensuring it can consistently develop high-quality products. With greater capacity, the company has also been able to introduce a new line offering a wider range of designs, giving customers more choice and greater scope to personalise their covers.
Dr Mark Williams said the investment was helping the business work more efficiently while maintaining the bespoke service at the heart of its products:
“Every cover we make is unique because every customer is different and we want people to have something they're proud to wear. The new equipment allows us to work much more efficiently without losing the attention to detail that our customers expect.”
The increased capacity is already translating into strong growth prospects, with LIMB-art forecasting revenue growth of up to 20% in the first year and lead time reductions of up to 30%.
“The funding we've received has been essential. It has allowed us to invest in technology that has streamlined production, meaning we're able to meet growing demand while continuing to provide the high level of quality and customer care we're known for.
“We're proud that every cover is designed and made here in north Wales, and we're now in an even stronger position to meet growing demand from customers around the world.”
Running from 2023 to 2026, the Supporting Local Business Key Fund was designed to strengthen the local economy while creating new opportunities and jobs. Since its launch, Conwy County Borough Council has distributed nearly £4 million to 117 businesses across the county.
Cllr Sharon Doleman, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Economy and Communications at Conwy County Borough Council, said:
“LIMB-art is a fantastic example of a business using innovation and creativity to develop a truly unique product from North Wales. The investment in specialist equipment will help businesses, such as LIMB-art, continue to grow while keeping high-value manufacturing and skilled jobs in Conwy.”
The closure of the Supporting Local Business Key Fund marks the end of a programme that has provided significant investment and practical support to businesses across the county, helping local enterprises innovate, strengthen their operations, create jobs and contribute to a more resilient and diverse local economy.
Alongside its regional partners, the Council is awaiting confirmation of any successor funding that could continue to support business growth and development. In the meantime, businesses are encouraged to stay in touch with the Council's Business Team, which will share updates as soon as new funding opportunities become available.
