DaceCrown, which supplies specialist manufacturing services to a range of sectors – from drinks and beauty to pharmaceuticals – has invested in new machinery and increased capacity with Allica Bank’s support, enabling it to pursue larger contracts and new expansion opportunities with major brands including Boots, Estée Lauder and The Coca-Cola Company.
Since being acquired by local entrepreneurs Jake Harley-Arliss and Tom White in 2023, the business has grown from three employees to 11 and increased turnover from around £300,000 to over £1 million within three years.
The business is also getting involved in the development of innovative cancer care technology, manufacturing components used in systems designed to make diagnosis and treatment more comfortable for patients. The systems allow physical care to be delivered in a more natural, upright position, helping to improve communication between clinicians and patients and making the experience feel less clinical.
Jake said: “When we took over the business, we saw an opportunity to build on the strong foundations already in place and expand into new areas. Being involved in technology that has the potential to improve the experience of people going through cancer diagnosis and treatment is something we're incredibly proud of.
“It's rewarding to know that the work we do here in Birmingham is contributing to projects that could make a real difference to patients all over the world, while also helping us continue to grow the business and create opportunities locally.”
Allica Bank initially supported the business through asset finance, enabling DaceCrown to invest in new equipment, including highly technical equipment such as a Haas Mini Mill with fourth-axis capability. The investment has significantly improved manufacturing efficiency, reducing certain production processes from four operations to just two and cutting processing requirements by approximately 50%. The funding has also expanded the company's manufacturing capability, supported the growth of its skilled local workforce, and enabled DaceCrown to secure larger, longer-term contracts.
Tom added: “Allica has been a real support for us as we’ve grown. It’s very different from the big banks, where everything feels much more distant.
“We’re with Allica because we have a great contact in Ben, someone who genuinely cares about our success. Having that support and flexibility has given us the confidence to go after opportunities we might otherwise have been hesitant to take on.”
Alongside its healthcare work, DaceCrown has placed strong emphasis on local employment and skills development. All 11 members of staff live within 10–12 miles of the company's Frankley headquarters, with the majority recruited from outside the manufacturing sector and trained on the job.
“We hire based on attitude and commitment as much as experience,” Jake said. “A lot of our team didn’t come from manufacturing backgrounds, but they’ve grown into it. What matters most is that people care about what they’re doing and want to be part of what we’re building. Skills can be taught, but the right mindset is harder to find.
“Keeping skills local is really important to us. We want to create opportunities in the Midlands and show that manufacturing can offer long-term, rewarding careers."
The company also works with local education providers, offering T Level placements on the shop floor and supporting apprenticeships to help develop the next generation of manufacturing talent.
Looking ahead, DaceCrown plans to continue expanding its manufacturing capabilities while growing its consumer-facing venture, CrownWorks Distillery, which is developing a range of premium spirits, coffee products and customer experiences.
Ben Homans, Relationship Manager at Allica Bank, said: “Working with Jake and Tom has been a real pleasure. They’re very clear about what they’re trying to build and bring a strong sense of purpose to the business, not just in terms of growth but in how it supports the people around them.
“What really stands out is their commitment to the local area – from creating opportunities for people nearby to investing in skills and long-term careers in Birmingham. At Allica, we're proud to support ambitious established businesses like DaceCrown as they continue investing in their people, their capabilities, and their future.”
