How strategic business support is powering growth and export expansion for Dudley business

Robert Lickley Refractories Ltd. is accelerating sustainable growth, creating local jobs and expanding into new international markets after embracing support through the Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) in Dudley programme.

Established in 1970, the second-generation family business manufactures high-performance refractory solutions for the steel, aluminium, petrochemical and energy sectors. With 36 employees and a long-standing reputation for precision engineering, the company combines traditional manufacturing expertise with a strong commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

Building momentum through structured support

As the business continued to grow, navigating the range of funding, export and innovation opportunities available became increasingly important. Chief Executive Officer Rob Lickley recognised that having structured, strategic guidance would be key to sustaining momentum and unlocking further growth.

Working closely with Business Adviser Donna Watkins, of Oxford Innovation Advice, the company accessed a wide range of support, including BEAS grant funding, Dudley Cap-Ex support, peer-to-peer leadership development, Made Smarter funding, and export and innovation guidance, through DBT, UK Export Finance, Innovate UK Business Growth and the Chamber Export Scheme.

Rather than treating this as one-off support, the business embedded it into its wider growth strategy.

Rob explains:

“Having a single point of contact through Donna has become an invaluable asset to my business. Whenever I need guidance, clarity, or a fresh perspective, I know I can simply send her an email or pick up the phone. She consistently provides direction, support, and insight that helps me navigate challenges with confidence.

This streamlined access to expert support has allowed me to focus more effectively on the strategic direction of the company. Instead of getting caught up in the day-to-day demands, I can concentrate on working on the business rather than being consumed by working in it.”

Measurable growth and local impact

Over the past 12 months, the business has seen an upward sales trajectory, with significant growth in both the volume and quality of orders secured. A major new contract with a French company has further strengthened its international footprint.

Growth has translated directly into local impact, with four new roles created in the past year, bringing total employment to 36.

Recent capital investment, supported by grant funding, has focused on enhancing environmental performance in response to customers’ increasing ESG commitments. As a result of these improvements, customers are already experiencing measurable benefits, including savings of hundreds of thousands of pounds in energy efficiency and compliance costs.

The company’s commitment to quality and sustainability is reinforced by ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 accreditation, alongside SafeSupplier and Cyber Essentials certification.

Engineering expertise beyond the norm

While the business continues to serve core industrial sectors, it also thrives on projects that break the mould.

Recent projects include a bespoke flue system designed for a handmade brick manufacturer, reducing the environmental impact of its production process, as well as an advanced mould-making collaboration with Nature’s Safe, where 3D printing technology was used to develop a coral preservation frame to support long-term marine sustainability.

These projects demonstrate how advanced manufacturing expertise developed in heavy industry can also contribute to environmental restoration and sustainable innovation.

Donna Watkins, Business Growth Adviser at Oxford Innovation Advice, said:

“It has been a privilege to work with Rob and support him in accessing the resources that have helped propel his business to the next stage of its growth journey.

Rob’s commitment to building a sustainable, forward-thinking business is evident in every decision he makes. His dedication not only contributes to job creation, but also sets a powerful example within his industry and across the wider manufacturing sector. By driving positive change and championing responsible growth, he continues to demonstrate what modern manufacturing leadership can achieve.”

Looking ahead

With strong foundations in place, Robert Lickley Refractories is focused on opening up new markets, continuing to develop sustainable products and pushing the boundaries of innovation within its sector.

By fully embracing the breadth of support available through BGWM in Dudley, Robert Lickley Refractories is not only strengthening its own future, but actively contributing to a more innovative, sustainable and globally competitive manufacturing base in Dudley.

The programme is funded by Dudley Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, supporting more than 850 unique businesses across the borough.

For further information, please visit www.businessgrowthwestmidlands.org.uk