Manufacturer expands into Asian markets
A Sowerby Bridge manufacturer is investing in expanding its Asian operations.
The company is opening a 10,000 sq ft facility in Vietnam and an office in mainland China. These will add to J&C Joel’s sites in Hong Kong, Macau, Africa, Europe, Middle East and the UK headquarters.
The sites will open in July this year and offer face-to-face support for Southeast Asia clients. The firm is looking to double the sales team in early 2017
J&C Joel, a 2015 Business Masters Award winner in the Exporter category, manufactures flame retardant fabrics, drapery and stage engineering for theatres.
More than 70% of the manufacturer’s sales are from international markets and it exports to 80 countries worldwide.
James Wheelwright, CEO at J&C Joel, said: “We have identified that in order to expand our growth beyond its current position we must invest in infrastructure. We are constantly investing in our already established locations and looking at innovative ways to improve and increase our offering across the world. By opening new offices in key locations in China and Vietnam can only strengthen our position for our expected future growth.
“We recognise the importance of international trade and we are continuously seeking to increase the exposure and knowledge of J&C Joel and our products and services across the globe. We know that having people on the ground in those areas and having local offices goes a long way to doing this and provides customers with a valuable local connection and ensures we are providing the best service to our clients around the world.”
