£1m investment programme boosts capacity for manufacturer

A STAFFORDSHIRE manufacturer has invested a further £1m into its production operation as it looks to step up its growth plan.

Russell Roof Tiles, based in Burton-upon-Trent, said the investment programme had led to a 30% increase in production capacity.

The latest investment brings the total spent on new equipment over the last five years to £5.7m.

All three of its manufacturing sites, on Nicolson Way and Wetmore Lane in Burton and one in Lochmaben in Scotland have benefitted from the ongoing financial support.  The investment programme enables the £30m-turnover company to deliver existing and new customer orders and increases capacity for its growing product portfolio.  
 
The £5.7m capital investment includes pallets, moulds used for different tiles, installing and upgrading its lines plus £300,000 for new tooling and machinery for its plastics division. The expenditure is supported by more shifts and staff investment.  

The improvements have also helped to speed up the manufacturing process, resulting in a 30% increase in capacity at the main Burton factory.

Last year Russells celebrated 25 years in Burton upon Trent and 50 years at its Lockerbie plant; the firm employs a team of 170 across its three sites.  

Andrew Hayward, managing director at Russell Roof Tiles, said: “It is important that we continue to invest in the latest technology to continue to drive the business forward.  As well as investing in employee talent it is vital that we continue to innovate and invest in plant and equipment.”