A designer and manufacturer of baby products is planning to expand its global footprint after securing a new finance deal.
Green Sheep Group has agreed a £1 million funding package which it will use to support the launch costs of its nursery and home baby brand Snuz in the US.
It plans to house £250,000 worth of company stock in the country which should eliminate the need to regularly import products such as bedside cribs, bedding and accessories.
Stratford-based Green Sheep Group, which was handed a King's Award for Enterprise in April, has seen turnover grow from £6.6 million to £16 million over the last four years.
This has been driven by a focus on e-commerce and direct-to-consumer communications, using websites and social media platforms to support growth.
Following this funding deal, the retailer is now forecasting its US expansion to deliver an additional £4 million in revenue over the next three years.
It is aiming to target both direct-to-consumer channels through its website and also major trade retailers and upscale boutiques.
Product director Paul Maurice said: "Although there is strong competition, the US market for bedside cribs is still relatively new - similar to the UK market four years ago.
"Therefore, we see this as an ideal time to enter the market and become one of the industry pioneers and leaders."
Mark Lupton, area director at HSBC UK which provided the funding, added: "Green Sheep Group's brands have already made their mark across Europe, Australia and the UAE.
"Now, the company has set its sights on expanding its international presence and breaking into the highly lucrative US market. This is a very exciting time for the business and we are delighted to be able to help it achieve its global ambitions."