Tailored support moves MV to F1 top table

Through the Warwickshire Manufacturing Growth Programme, delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, MV Composites gained access to tailored coaching and strategic support.

MV Composites Ltd, a Warwickshire-based carbon fibre component manufacturer, has rapidly established itself as a key player in the high-performance automotive and motorsport sectors.

Founded in 2021 by two former Formula1 Composite Technicians, the company was born from a drive to push industry standards higher, combining technical expertise with an unwavering commitment to innovation. Within just a few years, they have secured a major Formula 1 client and are in discussions with other teams. Their bespoke carbon fibre components have already been used in GT racing, Le Mans, the Dakar Rally and high-performance cycling, showcasing the depth of their technical capabilities.

As their reputation grew, so did the challenges of scaling a business in such a demanding sector. To win more contracts, particularly within Formula 1, they needed to achieve critical industry quality standards, including ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. Expanding their skilled workforce was also a priority, alongside investing in cutting-edge machinery to enhance efficiency and automation. The leadership team at MV Composites knew that addressing these barriers to growth would be key to their long-term success.

Through the Warwickshire Manufacturing Growth Programme, delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, MV Composites gained access to tailored coaching and strategic support. A GROWTHmapper assessment highlighted the steps needed to achieve quality accreditations and expert coaching guided them through the ISO 9001 process. They also engaged with the Skills Escalator Fund, enabling vital staff training, including First Aid and Fire Safety, which directly contributed to their ability to introduce an evening shift. Additionally, they attended a workshop on Digitalisation and received a Decarbonisation Assessment, helping them to explore sustainable energy solutions and potential grant funding for energy-saving equipment.

Julian Lucas, Manufacturing Growth Manager, said of his time with MV Composites, “Mathew and his team at MV Composites have been a pleasure to work with as they have a forward thinking mindset and embrace new opportunities for growth, whilst ensuring they take the team with them.”

The impact of this support has been significant. The company has grown from 17 employees to a team of 30 and they continue to invest in their workforce. Their turnover has surged, with projections of significant growth by the end of the financial year. With ISO 9001 now achieved and work underway for ISO 14001, they are well-positioned to secure even more high-profile contracts. Plans are already in motion to expand their site, acquire additional machinery and further automate production processes.

Reflecting on their experience, Director Mathew Lainsbury praised the programme, stating, “The support has been brilliant, with clear and regular communication throughout. The coaching was invaluable in helping us achieve ISO 9001, which has been a key factor in progressing with more F1 teams. We are now looking ahead to achieving ISO 14001 and continuing our journey of innovation and growth.”

MV Composites exemplifies what can be achieved with the right mix of expertise, ambition and targeted support. Their success story not only highlights the impact of the Warwickshire Manufacturing Growth Programme but also underscores the strength of the UK’s advanced manufacturing sector. With a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, they are firmly on track to become a leader in their field.

• Find out what other support is available to your business by calling Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747 or visit the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub website.