Salop Design presses button on growth
Shropshire pressings specialist Salop Design has completed the installation of the biggest-ever press in its Shrewsbury home.
The company has invested £500,000 to install at 630-tonne Cattaneo progression press, taking the company's total spend over the last four years to £2.5 million.
The new machine was passed off ready to run this week, after an ambitious refurb programme, and will help bring more work to the Shropshire region supporting first tier and OEM companies.
The press is faster than existing facilities, improving productivity and competitiveness.
Salop will be taking on two further staff to run the press, adding to the 110 already employed by the company.
It is also expected to drive a five to 10 per cent increase in annual turnover.
Commercial director Christopher Greenough says the investment in the Shrewsbury site demonstrates the company's commitment to the region, and gives the company another boost.
"There is a real buzz around UK manufacturing, and we need to look to keep this optimism and enthusiasm going," he said.
"Having a larger machine capability will allow us to quote on more work, and further support our customers. This is a 630 tonne progression press that will be used to make automotive and non-automotive parts from coil.
"It is a high-speed, efficient piece of equipment that bolsters and progresses our current capability."
Since 2012, Salop Design has repeatedly invested in its Shrewsbury site to maintain its market position as a key tier two pressings supplier in the UK.
In 2012 the company invested £750,000 in its first powder coating line, which it followed up with a second line in 2015, at a similar cost.
In 2013 the business invested £150,000 in a 500 tonne hydraulic press, and it has also invested in the future of Shropshire training with the opening of the £300,000 manufacturing training centre.
During that period the 50-year-old Brixton Way company has also invested in a solar installation on its roof,
"Manufacturing in the UK is still driving the economy forward, and Salop are at the forefront of this push," Mr Greenough added.
"The new press will help create further jobs, and secure the company's future."
