01-04-2025
Company's acquisition of brand creates more jobs for North East
A North East company has acquired another brand, creating more jobs for the region.
Katy Sue Designs, based in South Tyneside, has acquired Cosmic Shimmer and Red Rubber Stamp production from Creative Expressions.
The acquisition will bring all manufacturing to South Tyneside, creating jobs in the area.
Katy Sue, known for its creative products in arts, crafts, and cake decorating, is relocating production to South Tyneside, where silicone moulds and paper craft products are already made.
Sue Balfour, Katy Sue's CEO, said: "We're proud to be a British manufacturer.
"In 2024 we were highly commended in the UK Government's 'Made in the UK, Sold to the World' awards.
"When we learned that Creative Expressions was planning to close, we stepped in, determined not to lose this incredible made-in-the-UK brand and the manufacturing capability that comes with it.
"All manufacturing will proudly stay in the UK—with more local jobs and new designs on the way."
South Tyneside Council's lead member for economic growth and transport, Councillor Margaret Meling, said: "This is fantastic news for Katy Sue Designs and South Tyneside.
"We've watched Katy Sue develop rapidly from a small homegrown start up into a fantastic award-winning business that has expanded rapidly and now sells products all over the world.
"This new acquisition will have such a positive and direct impact on our borough, creating local jobs for local people.
"The company is thriving, and I wish them all the success with their current and future plans."
