Demand sparks growth for kitchens maker
A LANCASHIRE manufacturer has expanded on the back of growing demand.
Family owned JJO, which makes fitted kitchens and bathrooms and is based in Burnley, has invested £1.35m in buying additional premises.
Founded in 1868, JJO employs more than 400 people at its Bacup headquarters and its services include design, manufacture and delivery of furniture to a network of independent retailers.
The firm recorded a turnover of £36.6m in February 2014, an increase of4.29% on the previous year.
The new deal takes the company’s production and warehousing facilities to six.
Stephen Greenhalgh, managing director at JJO added: “We first spotted Victoria Works in 1989 and saw its huge potential. Now, JJO produces over 600 kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms each week so space and a quick purchase process was key.
“Armed with the new premises we are in a strong position to future-proof the company’s infrastructure. Confidence in our business model is high and we are looking forward to future growth.”
In the last 12 months strong growth of JJO’s bathroom range has meant the company has struggled for space, the company says.
Half of the new building will now be used for bathroom furniture, while the rest will house bedroom furniture, enabling the company to free up some much needed packing areas.
Law firm Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall advised on JJO’s acquisition of the 120,000 sq ft Victoria Mill on Hill End Lane, Rawtenstall.
Gary Jones of WHN said: “This was a complex purchase due to the numerous ownerships of the site and a great deal of inspection work was required to ensure the commercial property was just right for the client.
“It’s pleasing to see a Lancashire business expand and the new premises will allow JJO continue to develop on a national level and grow within the manufacturing sector.”
WHN has offices in Accrington, Bacup, Blackburn, Bury, Great Harwood, Haslingden and Rawtenstall, employing over 100 people.
