Panaloc leaves Salford and heads over the Pennines

MANUFACTURER Panaloc has relocated from Salford to a 100,000 sq ft facility in Hull.

Panaloc Worldwide Manufacturing, an off-site manufacturer of fitted out room and bathroom pods, is finalising the commissioning of its new plant at the Hull site in readiness for full production this year.

Around 70 jobs are expected to be lost in the local area as a result of the relocation.

It was awarded regional grant funding of £258,000 as part of a relocation package offered by economic development company Hull Forward.

The firm plans to build a significant business in the growing sectors of affordable hotels and housing, student accommodation, detention cells and panels for the retail sector.

John Watkins, director and general manager, said: “Hull Forward has been very supportive throughout our relocation and our commissioning, and particularly helpful in securing the employment-based funding.

“By moving to Hull, we were able to improve our product offering, particularly by accessing locally important elements of the supply chain.”

Mr Watkins added that the firm would also benefit from an employee base experienced in caravan and off-site construction manufacturing.

“The same is true of local material and system suppliers who have the expertise and know-how associated with the industry,” he said.