The leading independent art retailer continues to experience business growth following a series of significant investments. There's no sign of her slowing down. The artist is consistently investing in herself and her enterprise, as well as taking steps to future-proof her business.

In Spring 2022, the business undertook a major project to expand its production, logistics, and shipping capacity from its North Yorkshire head office. This endeavour included constructing a 3,300 sq. ft dedicated warehouse facility, adding an additional 1,000 sq. ft of production space, and creating more office space, a photography suite, and EV charging points. By accessing grant funding from the European Fund for Rural Development, 40% of the project's costs were covered by external sources.

Furthering the expansion of the head office's physical footprint, production capacity was also bolstered with investment in new equipment. This allowed the business to bring the capturing process of original artwork in-house, using high-resolution, contact-free scanning through the WideTEK36 Art Fine Art Scanner. Additionally, the acquisition of a second printer has doubled the printing capacity.

The recent acquisition of specialist equipment and stock, along with six skilled staff from Wensleydale Galleries, has added value to the ever-expanding in-house services and core offerings. Wensleydale Galleries, with their decades of expertise in framing, restoration, and conservation, will integrate into the Lucy Pittaway brand from March 2023.

With the gallery in Harrogate having opened in October 2022, another set to open in York in March 2023, and more planned over the next two years, there's a continued focus on bringing art to the high street. Each gallery requires its own financial investment before even opening its doors, but they also create 4-6 jobs with each launch.

The growth in the number of physical stores operating under the Lucy Pittaway brand means more regular deliveries across a broader part of the country. The business acquired its first electric vehicle with the support of a partial government grant. The VW Buzz Cargo, purchased from Lookers Teesside, is now servicing the Northeast, Northwest, and Yorkshire, making it the first of its kind in the region.

Lucy explains, "It was crucial for us to consider our carbon footprint as we expanded, not as an afterthought. We recognised that more galleries would equate to more transportation needs, and procuring an electric vehicle was always part of our strategy."

"Being able to grow the business is a privilege. While it hasn't always been straightforward, we're immensely grateful to all our partners who've supported us with advice, guidance, and funding. By diversifying our core offerings and bringing services in-house, we aim to future-proof the business and continue making art accessible."