Ernest Bennett & Co (Darlington) Ltd has invested “a considerable amount of money” in a new 35,000ft2 factory and office block.
Situated on a four-and-a-half acre site at Teesside International Airport, the new factory is just one mile from the company’s original site, enabling it to retain and increase its experienced workforce.
Managing director Rob Maxey said: “The move took place over a two-week period and forward planning enabled us to move without loss of production.”
He said expansion in manufacture and repair of all wood and metal work tooling would take place at the new premises, including wide bandsaws and TCT circular saws, as well as TCT, PCD and HSS tooling.
An inspection and test laboratory, including televised high density magnification, will be available for the examination of the company’s own and clients’ products.
A new showroom has been incorporated in the 6,500ft2 office complex, enabling customers to see the company’s complete range, and technical advice will be available.
The site has planning permission for further development, assuring the long-term future of the company.
Mr Maxey said: “We have virtually doubled the space we had at our previous premises where we had 18,000ft2.
“This investment has been made with the future in mind. The current market is buoyant both here and in the States where we have a factory and service centre in New Hampshire which we supply from the UK.”
