Specialist manufacturer kicks open the door to further growth

A Barnsley-based fire door manufacturer is investing in growth to achieve £1m in annual sales.

Door Solutions Group Ltd, based in Dodworth, makes and installs fire doors for schools, hospitals, universities and commercial premises.

Established in 2015, it has increased sales eight-fold in six years, reaching a £650,000 turnover prior to the pandemic. It has now invested in larger premises and new technology to target £1m post-pandemic.

The company, based at Fall Bank industrial estate, has nearly doubled its workspace to 7,000 sq ft by expanding into the premises next door.

It has spent £220,000 on new machinery and is recruiting two new joiners and an apprentice to its existing team of eight.

Managing director, Donovan Watkins, said: “We are passionate about supplying well-made and well-fitted fire doors to our customers.

“We also work as consultants to architects and developers to stress the importance of customised, fully-certified fire doors in every setting.

“All our growth so far has come word of mouth and demand continues to grow alongside growing awareness of fire safety in the market.

“With improved machinery and more space for stock, our aim is to boost production and quicken our manufacturing process to get more quality fire doors out of the door.”

The company received £16,800 of funding towards its investment from Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (the LEP), delivered by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, through the Leeds City Region Growth Deal – a £1bn package of Government support to accelerate growth and create jobs across Leeds City Region.

Watkins added: “The business grant has been very welcome at this time and we’re grateful to Enterprising Barnsley for making us aware of this financial support.”

Roger Marsh, chairman of Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (the LEP) and NP11, said: “It is great to see our investment supporting companies like this to grow and create jobs during these challenging times.

“Many businesses continue to be affected by the pandemic, and as we strive to grow a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable economy.

“It is encouraging to see companies like Door Solutions Group are leading the way and are focusing on improving productivity.”

Councillor Tim Cheetham, Barnsley’s cabinet spokesman for regeneration and culture, said: “Door Solutions Group Ltd is a Barnsley business with important expertise which is in demand nationwide. It’s great to see them investing in the future and creating new jobs.”