A Cardiff-based artisan food producer is set to scale up production of its Jamaican-inspired range after securing a £50,000 micro loan from the Development Bank of Wales to meet growing customer and trade demand.
Founded by Leroy Williams in 2021, The Pattyman began as a home-based venture inspired by his late parents – a father from the Windrush generation and a mother from the Welsh Valleys. Drawing on traditional family recipes, Leroy set out to create a food business that celebrates both sides of his heritage through authentic Jamaican-inspired products influenced by Welsh culture and identity.
The micro loan, provided via the Wales Flexible Investment Fund, will help Leroy strengthen the business' operations and build capacity as demand for his products continues to grow.
Operating from Tremorfa Industrial Estate in Cardiff, the business produces a range of artisan products including award-winning Red Pepper Jelly, sauces, relishes, jerk marinades, rum punch and Jamaican patties. The business supplies customers directly while also serving wholesale and trade markets across Wales and beyond.
At the heart of the brand is the Welsh concept of cynefin, meaning a sense of belonging and connection to place.
Leroy Williams, founder and owner of The Pattyman, said:
“The Pattyman started as a way of honouring my parents and celebrating the cultures that shaped me. My dad came to Wales as part of the Windrush generation and my mum was from the Welsh Valleys, so I wanted to create something that brought those parts of my identity together.
“Food has always been about family, community and connection. Every recipe has a story behind it and every product reflects the traditions that were passed down to me.
“This investment gives us the platform to build on what we've achieved so far. It will help us increase capacity, support future growth and continue sharing the flavours and heritage that make The Pattyman unique with more customers.”
The funding was provided by the Development Bank of Wales as part of its support for growing Welsh businesses. Micro loans can help established businesses to invest in expansion, improve productivity and take advantage of new opportunities, helping them take the next step in their growth journey.
Dylan Evans, Assistant Investment Executive at the Development Bank of Wales, said:
“The Pattyman is a great example of a Welsh business with a distinctive proposition, strong values and clear growth ambitions. Leroy has built a brand that stands out through the quality of its products and the story behind them.
“Businesses like The Pattyman demonstrate how smaller investments can make a meaningful difference when it comes to increasing capacity, developing operations and supporting sustainable growth. We look forward to supporting Leroy as he takes the business forward.”
Financed by Welsh Government, the £500 million Wales Flexible Investment Fund supports Welsh businesses with terms of up to 15 years. Loans, mezzanine finance, and equity investments are available from £25,000 to £10 million.
