VIDEO: Ice cream maker scoops grant from LEP

A £30,000 grant from the LEP has helped Yorvale, a York based ice cream manufacturer, to convert a former farm building into a cold store room and implement water saving methods.

The grant has allowed Yorvale to expand its production facilities and employ three new members of staff.

Growing the business 

Yorvale was established in 1989 when Ian and Lesley Buxton began using the surplus milk from their dairy farm in North Yorkshire to create ice cream. As Yorvale began selling its products into the foodservice industry the business grew and today it is a key competitor within the sector, currently employing 16 members of staff.

Supported by the LEP grant, the business has now converted an old farm building into a cold store room that can store 70 pallets. This conversion allows Yorvale to store its products internally, which has ensured the business remains in full control of its production line, and saves out buying costs.

Grant support to take the next steps

The grant was part of a £154,600 investment that also saw a water storage unit installed. The dirty water store collects 1.6 million litres of waste water that is stored for six months and then sprayed on the land as organic fertiliser. 

Lesley Buxton, co-founder of Yorvale, said the investment was necessary to help the business grow further within the foodservice sector, and expand into the retail market. Yorvale recently employed a commercial manager to aid the business in its expansion.

Roger Marsh, Chair of the LEP said: “We are thrilled to have been able to assist Yorvale in this strategic investment. Yorvale ice cream is a well-loved Yorkshire business and the LEP is pleased to have provided a grant to support employment in one of the region’s key sectors.”

Looking to grow your business?

Lesley Buxton added: “The grant was welcomed by the business as it was necessary for the large investment we made. We would recommend the LEP to any businesses within the area who are looking to grow.”