Lighting the way with business growth support

Dudley-based film and photography equipment supplier Pixapro has expanded rapidly after engaging with the Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) in Dudley Programme, accessing one-to-one business support, leadership development through the Peer to Peer programme, and finance guidance that helped secure grant funding and commercial investment.

Founded in 2011, Pixapro has grown from a small online supplier into a recognised player in the UK’s professional photography and film sector. With tailored support from the BGWM in Dudley Programme, the company is now entering a major new phase; expanding its premises, building its distribution network, and investing in both its people and systems to fuel long-term growth.

“We’re a young, ambitious team with big plans,” says Ling Tan, Chief Operating Officer at Pixapro. “The support we’ve received has helped us take tangible steps toward those goals, from securing funding to building our knowledge, networks and leadership skills.”

Adapting to a changing industry

Pixapro supplies high-quality lighting and accessories to photographers and filmmakers across the UK. The company has a strong track record of adapting to market trends - from capitalising on the rise of smartphones and LED lighting, to embracing the boom in online video during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Today, Pixapro is a trusted supplier to studios in London and is expanding into new markets, including Scotland. The company has also secured exclusive UK distribution rights for an innovative film lighting product, strengthening its competitive position in a growing sector.

“The exclusive rights give us security,” says Ling. “We can focus on laying strong foundations now, knowing that the real growth and reward will come in years three, four and five.”

Growth driven by expert support and strategic finance

With support from Business Growth Adviser Paul Sampson, and strategic development through the programme’s Peer to Peer cohort, Pixapro accessed £51,000 in Dudley SME Grant funding alongside commercial finance to repurpose its new premises and support its growth plans.

The business purchased and refurbished a large, disused warehouse; doubling its operational space and enabling the creation of a new showroom and demonstration area.

“Without that support, we couldn’t have reached this point,” Ling explains. “Paul and the team understood our situation, helped us secure the right finance, and the Peer to Peer programme gave us the strategic focus to grow.”

Expert endorsement

“Pixapro is an exciting business with strong growth plans and a professional approach to business development,” says Paul Sampson, Business Growth Adviser. “Ling and the team have embraced every element of the programme to accelerate their expansion and strengthen their market position.”

Bigger premises, bigger impact

The new premises has already delivered significant benefits. With double the space, Pixapro can stock a wider range, showcase products in a dedicated showroom, and offer free equipment loans to universities and young filmmakers, supporting the next generation of creatives.

Pixapro has also invested in workflow systems and talent. Since January 2025, the company has created three new roles, promoted existing staff, and achieved 20% year-on-year growth, supported by the launch of a new B2B online ordering platform in November 2025.

Looking ahead

Pixapro is now exploring new sales channels such as high street retail, as well as diversification into adjacent markets including podcasting, gaming and musical instruments. The team is also working to bring more young people into the creative sector through skills partnerships and equipment access.

“We're dedicated to welcoming young creators into the industry as the future of their craft,” Ling notes, “and encouraging their lighting creativity."

A bright future

With a clear vision, exclusive product partnerships and a strong growth strategy, Pixapro is well positioned to thrive in a rapidly changing creative sector. Support from the BGWM in Dudley Programme has played a key role in unlocking finance, building leadership capabilities and strengthening the team.

The programme is funded by Dudley Council via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, supporting more than 750 companies across the borough.

“The support has been invaluable,” says Ling. “It’s helped us grow smarter and faster. We’re excited for what’s next.”

For further information, please visit www.businessgrowthwestmidlands.org.uk or www.essentialphoto.co.uk.