Simworx boosts global exports & jobs with innovative park tech
Simworx has presented its latest indoor theme park technology to Sonia Kumar MP during a visit to its Kingswinford facility.
The company, established in the West Midlands, specialises in 4D Effects Cinema and Motion Simulation Attractions, offering indoor theme park rides such as the AGV Darkride, Flying Theatre, and Immersive Tunnel. These attractions cater to entertainment, education, and corporate clients worldwide.
Expansion and exports
Simworx has recently been recognised as an Export Champion for the region by the Department for Business and Trade. The company has secured total export orders valued at GBP £134 million, with more than GBP £40 million anticipated in the current year, supporting continued business growth.
Investment support has been provided by BGF, which has offered both capital and expertise since 2015. BGF is recognised as a prominent growth capital investor across the UK and Ireland, and its partnership with Simworx has been a significant contributing factor to the company's operational scaling and increased international reach.
Workforce and global reach
The visit, coordinated by the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA), allowed Sonia Kumar MP to discuss with Simworx's Chief Executive Officer Terry Monkton the impacts of private capital investment. According to Simworx, the business now manages over 120 installations worldwide and serves approximately 60 million users annually. Its client base continues to grow across various sectors.
Data from the BVCA indicates that private capital-backed firms in the West Midlands support 173,000 jobs and contribute GBP £11 billion in GDP to the region's economy. In 2024, private capital investment in the West Midlands reached GBP £466 million, with a significant proportion directed at small and medium-sized businesses.
Endorsements
Sonia Kumar, MP for Dudley, in response to her visit and the company's operations, said:
"Simworx is a shining example of British innovation, engineering and creativity at its best. Seeing their state-of-the-art simulation attractions up close was truly inspiring and shows how our local businesses are world leaders on the global stage. The dedication and skill of the Simworx team not only drives economic growth here in Dudley but also brings joy to millions around the world. I am proud to champion creative companies like Simworx, who are pioneering new technologies, supporting jobs and helping put our region on the map for excellence and ambition."
Speaking on the effect of investment, Terry Monkton, Chief Executive of Simworx, commented:
"With BGF's backing, we've been able to deliver our growth plan and achieve significant export success. As well as the patient capital that's been essential to our expansion, the team has added value with their experience of supporting other businesses to supercharge international growth and innovation. We see significant further opportunity and are proud to partner with the world's most exciting and trailblazing theme parks."
Jon Earl, Partner at BGF, also expressed support:
"Simworx is a fantastic example of a Midlands business achieving global success and showcasing the region's creative, tech and manufacturing strengths on the international stage. The company's success reflects the wider opportunity we see across the Midlands, which is why BGF has committed £300 million to support ambitious businesses here over the next five years, as part of our £3 billion UK-wide pledge. This builds on the £541 million we've already invested in the region since 2011, reinforcing our commitment to helping local businesses grow sustainably, create jobs and drive economic value."
Michael Moore, Chief Executive of the BVCA, added:
"Simworx is a prime example of a business that has harnessed the support of private capital to achieve financial success, deliver innovation and support the local economy. Private capital is a partner for economic growth, supporting thousands of jobs in the West Midlands and across the UK. Our industry backs the most innovative businesses supporting local economies in every nation and region."
Sector overview
Simworx's range of immersive simulation rides is designed for a broad spectrum of venues, including museums, theme parks, family entertainment centres, zoos, and aquariums. The company's activities cover concept design, theming, installation, training, and ongoing support. BGF's commitment to the Midlands reflects a broader vision for promoting growth among small and medium-sized enterprises, aligning with the general trend of investment in the UK's regional economies.
