A Birmingham-based manufacturer has seen its turnover grow and has secured significant new contracts after launching an innovative new marine product.

KPM Marine, which employs 23 people on Princip Street in Birmingham, designs and manufactures specialist safety products for the marine industry including pumps, strainers and vents.

The new shock mitigation seat reduces the danger of back injuries for people such as the police and RNLI on fast-moving lightweight boats when they hit large waves. The business has now won a two year contract with the Dutch navy.

KPM Marine, which has received tax support from accountancy firm Smith Cooper, has also tapped into the growth of renewable energy, developing a seat for use on boats that service offshore wind farms. This product is 40 per cent lighter, better suited and safer for use on the sea and easily removable so the boat’s application can be changed within a matter of hours.

Through a close working partnership with Smith Cooper, KPM Marine has increased its annual turnover fifteen fold, from £50,000 to £750,000 in just three years.

John Key, managing director at KPM Marine, said: “The offshore wind farm market in particular is booming. There are currently 600 in operation but by 2020 this will increase to over 2000. Tapping into this explosive growth seemed the next logical step but to do that we needed funding.”

Ed Saunders, director at Smith Cooper, said: “The West Midlands has a strong manufacturing heritage and it is SMEs like KPM Marine which are still innovating in a difficult sector, that will help the region prosper once more.

“We work closely with John and Julian to drive value and growth objectives within the business. The wealth of manufacturing expertise in the Midlands has enabled them to successfully be part of the UK’s export-led recovery.”