Published April 6th, 2021
A world-leading natural clay plaster manufacturer has experienced international growth throughout the last year thanks to a shift in consumer priorities.
Clayworks, based in Helston, Cornwall, produces sustainable and 100% natural clay plasters which are recyclable, compostable, and re-useable.
Founded in 2009, the company 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.”
Clayworks plasters have a unique finish of cloudy tones and textures which creates a natural aesthetic, and have a number of high performance properties which has caught the attention of those wanting to live more sustainably.
Clare Whitney, business development manager at Clayworks, said: “This year has given many people time to reflect on what is important to them. 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.”
The performance attributes which make the plasters an ideal material for interior spaces, such as an office, include the ability to absorb odours, noise, and glare, as well as passively regulate temperatures. Unfired clay also absorbs and desorbs indoor humidity faster than any other building material. This breathability means it can maintain air humidity at a level where airborne infectious bacteria and viruses are unlikely to survive – something which has become a major USP during the pandemic.
Clare continued: “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.
