News: PMS Diecasting investment secures major order

Investment in new equipment by Rotherham zinc diecasting specialist, PMS Diecasting has helped to secure a major contract previously bound for China.

The Hellaby firm has invested in three Frech diecasting machines and two new ABB robotic arms after securing asset finance from Yorkshire Bank's South Yorkshire Financial Solutions Centre (FSC) in Sheffield.

Gordon Panter, PMS Diecasting managing director, said: "Acquiring these machines is part of a continuous investment programme which means we are geared up for high-volume work, in this case, a £700,000 order for window hardware, such as locking devices, which used to go to China but has now come back to South Yorkshire at a time when people are worried about economic power going East.

"Our use of robotics makes us extremely efficient and cost-effective. This, coupled with the weaker pound and increased freight charges, means this customer gets better value from the work being done in South Yorkshire.

"It is also attractive to them because it reduces lead times in an uncertain economic climate and avoids stock being held up on the water."

Yorkshire Bank South Yorkshire FSC business partner, Chris Blanksby, added: "PMS Diecasting is an example of a forward-thinking British manufacturer doing well globally in the current tough market.

"We're pleased and proud to have supported the business with asset finance for these latest investments as part of our Investing For Growth strategy because this is just what British industry needs to be doing."

Founded in 1975 by Gordon's father, Neil, PMS developed a precision manufacturing process to produce handsaws that proved so successful that every DIY retail outlet and most handtool distributors sold an "own brand" saw which was made and branded by PMS in Rotherham. In just five years PMS became the largest volume manufacturer of handaws in the UK.

Gordon and colleague, Robin Mokryj, acquired the company in 2000 and started an intensive investment programme to move into specialist diecasting work.

The employee-owned business, which has 30 staff and has pioneered environmentally-friendly manufacturing techniques, expects turnover to rise by £500,000 to £3.5 million this year. Customers including Yale, Chubb, Britax and Gripple.

PMS website

Images: pmsdiecasting.co.uk