Clothing brand Attacus Cycling gets NPIF II backing to grow

The brand was acquired last year by Neil Stephenson-backed Mira Marketing

Cycling clothing brand Attacus has received funding it says will help it to move faster in delivering new products and breaking into new markets.

The Newcastle-based firm, which is owned by Mira Marketing, has secured the backing of NPIF II – NEL Smaller Loans, which is managed by NEL Fund Manager. It comes nearly a year after Attacus was acquired by the Ouseburn-based marketing agency having been a client.

NEL has declined to make public the size of the loan, though sums from that fund are typically between £25,000 to £100,000. It says the funding will support the next stage of growth for Attacus, which focuses on performance, comfort and modern design – taking cues Italian manufacturing.

The funding will be used to expand the brand’s product range, increase stock depth across key lines, and accelerate marketing activity and brand development. It will also be used to boost ecommerce infrastructure, creative production, and international growth, particularly in key cycling markets across Europe and beyond.

Stuart Bramley, founder of Mira Marketing and owner of Attacus, said: “Working with NEL has been a really positive experience. They understand the ambition behind Attacus and have backed that with both investment and support that goes beyond just capital.

“This partnership gives us the confidence to move faster and make better long-term decisions – whether that’s in product development, brand positioning, or expanding into new markets. It’s a key step in building Attacus into a globally recognised cycling brand.”

Susan Snowdon, investment executive at NEL Fund Managers, added: “Neil Stephenson approached me during a Sunderland Platform event to discuss plans he and Stuart had after acquiring the brand, as well as the potential need for investment. With their combined expertise and vision, it was an exciting opportunity to be involved. I wish them all the best as they pursue their growth ambitions.”

Sarah Newbould, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank said: “Through the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, we are committed to improving access to finance for innovative companies with strong growth potential and supporting ambitious businesses across the North to scale sustainably is central to our purpose. This investment will help Attacus build on its foundations and accelerate it next phase of development, both in the UK and internationally.”

The £660m Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II is intended to drive economic growth by supporting businesses across the entire North of England. It provides loans from £25k to £2m and equity investment up to £5m to help a range of small and medium sized businesses to start up, scale up or stay ahead.