Wetherby-based outdoor furniture maker Akula Living has secured funding to strengthen its position in the global market.

The firm has received an undisclosed sum from Leeds-based Reward Finance Group in order to boost its international reach.

Akula specialises in the contract market, supplying bespoke furniture designed to cope with UV, seawater, chlorinated water, extreme temperatures and the heavy usage associated with the hospitality sector.

With a client list that includes Marriott, TUI Cruises, Waldorf Astoria Casa Marina Resort and Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the company already operates its own design and manufacturing facility. It currently has offices in America, Europe, the Middle East and the Far East.

Alec Walton, Akula Living’s managing director, said: “With demand for our furniture really taking off, Reward [Finance Group] knew we needed a quick cash injection to meet the orders, and we are now looking forward to a record year for the company as we expand our global presence.”