A Cornish clay plaster maker has grown throughout the pandemic thanks to an increase in people taking on their own DIY projects during lockdown.

Clayworks, based in Helston, produce sustainable and 100% natural clay plasters which are recyclable, compostable, and re-useable and has seen in an increase in the number of residential and renovation projects its undertaking.

The manufacturer has also experienced international growth throughout the last year thanks to this shift in consumer priorities.

Founded in 2009, the company has received support from the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Growth Hub, which assisted with a plan to optimise and develop the company’s website for its international expansion.

Growth Hub business connections manager Matt Borne said: "We carried out a business review with Clayworks, discussing its strategy and how to take the business forward.

"I then referred them to a digital programme which aims to support ambitious businesses with international possibilities, and I’m pleased to see this has given them a solid foundation to go from strength-to-strength."

Clare Whitney, business development manager at Clayworks, said: "This year has given many people time to reflect on what is important to them.

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"We’ve seen a huge uptake in our products due to the sustainability and health benefits they can bring to an interior space.

"Our main clients have always been architects and designers.

"Over the last 12 months we’ve seen a lot more customers completing DIY projects as well, with a big shift from us fitting out commercial projects and restaurants, to residential properties and renovation projects - as people look to finish their homes to a higher standard.

"More recently we have handled a lot of workspace refits in preparation for employees’ return to the office.

"The businesses we have worked with have said there’s a real want and need to be back together again with colleagues, and our clay plasters have helped redesign the spaces in a healthy and sustainable way to ensure the offices are as safe as possible.

"We have of course faced some challenges, particularly relating to Brexit and being able to guarantee shipment times to Europe, as well as pandemic disruption around the movement of people to be able to provide specialist services.

"Overall it’s been a positive year for us.

"During lockdown in the UK, large projects continued in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Alongside our global business growth, we’ve invested a lot of time into research and development, certification, and quality assurances so we can continue driving our world-leading product forward."

For more information about the Growth Hub or to book a free business review visit: ciosgrowthhub.com or call 01209 708660.