Bidford business has worked with Rolls Royce, Dyson and Rover

The company’s skilled craftsmen also create powerful point of sale for shop displays and windows.

These include a model of a rollercoaster for an eye-catching window display for luxury brand Hermés and outside and inside Christmas decorations for auctioneers Sotheby’s featuring replicas of art and luxury items such as a Rolex watch, a Louis Vuitton chair and a pair of Niké trainers – all crafted, spray painted and finished in the Bidford workshops.

Other high-profile jobs include 3-D printed models for two confectionery brands that will shortly be seen on our TV screens in adverts, plus replica parts for a submersible rescue machine.

As well as having worked with the likes of Rolls Royce, Dyson and Rover, the company has also produced props for many blockbuster film and TV productions.

It even created a model of a carousel for theme park Drayton Manor’s hotel, which sits proudly in a glass case in reception and is admired by thousands of visitors.

As everything’s done in-house, the crew can guarantee tight turnarounds for clients often working against the clock.

The 23-strong team, which includes 15 craftsmen and spread across three locations in Bidford, is celebrating after winning two awards.

Technical director Ross Nicholls has been named one of the UK's top 100 most inspirational leaders in manufacturing.

The honour, from respected industry magazine The Manufacturer and judged by a panel of industry leaders, academics and manufacturing associations, recognised Mr Nicholls’ innovation and leadership, including championing the adoption of large-format 3D printing, which experts say is helping shape the future of British manufacturing.

Mr Nicholls was also shortlisted in two other categories: innovator, and digital transformation.

The company’s also just been awarded 3D printing service of the year 2024 at the Innovation and Excellence Awards.

These are nominated by customers, through business information provider Corporate Wire, with clients praising Malcolm Nicholls’ exceptional service and cutting-edge technology.

But although it’s making waves for its cutting edge tech, it’s a third-generation family business that’s been around for more than five decades.

In the early days it focused on small models mainly for architectural practices and automotive manufacturers such as Rolls Royce and Rover.

Since then, it’s embraced technology and now combines the latest 3D printing techniques with original craftsmanship.

Elisha Dunkley, head of marketing and digital, said: “We work on a whole host of things but as they’re often highly sensitive prototypes and parts, we’ve signed non-disclosure agreements so can’t talk about our successes.

“After winning these awards, we’re elated that we can finally shout about something.”

Many of the company’s staff have worked at the company for a long time – one for 53 years.

Ms Dunkley added: “We are a people-focused business.

“You can’t be in this industry without skilled model makers – the craftsmen are the backbone of this business.”

Malcolm Nicholls, who started the company 55 years ago, congratulated his son Ross for his achievement.

He said: “This recognition is a testament to the exceptional talent and dedication that thrives within the UK manufacturing sector

“Ross consistently pushes the boundaries of 3D printing technology, solidifying Malcolm Nicholls Ltd’s position as a leading force in UK prototyping.”

He added: “Ross’s inclusion in both the inspiring leader, innovator and digital transformation categories is a true reflection of his remarkable contributions.

“Ross’ unwavering commitment to our company, coupled with his innovative spirit, Ross along with our team are the key drivers of our continued success.”

ENDS

Captions: Image of the man with the parts on a machine is Ross Nicholls

Image with the large SLA part a few of our team members showing the size of an SLA we printed for a client

Car is the BAC Mono R we 3D printed parts for