News: Work underway on new food venue in Rotherham

One of the UK’s fastest-growing café brands has chosen Rotherham as its first South Yorkshire location.

Work is underway to convert a former Chinese restaurant on Barbot Hall Industrial Estate.

Chocoberry began in Leicester in 2018 and has grown rapidly on the success of its legendary chocolate-dipped strawberries. It now has over 25 locations across the UK and UAE, with upcoming openings in Canada and Turkey and plans to expand globally.

The Chocoberry menu also includes indulgent desserts such as various cakes and cheesecakes, kanafeh, cookie dough, crepes, waffles, macarons, churros, sundaes, hot drinks, milkshakes and mocktails.

Expanding through franchising, the Rotherham branch is listed as "opening soon."

At Rother Court on Mangham Road, the new location has most recently been home to Lin Palace. It was previously Lihoma and Papa Luigi's.

Advertisement
Posting on LinkedIn, Ameer Nurmahomed, franchise development manager working with the brand, said: "The remarkable rise of Chocoberry has been nothing short of extraordinary.

"We have achieved the impressive milestone of becoming the '4th most ordered brand with Deliveroo', placing us right after iconic names such as McDonald’s, KFC, and Nando's. This resurgence in popularity showcases not only our delectable and innovative menu items but also highlights the enthusiastic response from our customers who are increasingly drawn to our unique flavours and experiences we provide.

"As we continue to capture the hearts and appetites of our customers, we eagerly look forward to building on this momentum and solidifying our presence in the competitive food market.

"Rotherham, prepare yourself for a delightful experience! Our new branch is currently being constructed with an new innovative design concept."

Chocoberry website

Images: Tom Austen / Chocoberry

Read more...

News: Rotherham United's £5m debt with ASD

In the latest accounts of Rotherham-based manufacturing firm, ASD Lighting PLC, Rotherham United Football Club is listed as a debtor owing £5.2m.

Both ASD Lighting PLC and Rotherham United have ASD Lighting Holding Limited as their parent company, connected by Tony Stewart, the founder of ASD Lighting and the man who saved the Millers in 2008. The businessman brought them out of administration and has overseen promotions, cup success and a move to a new stadium in town, at the same time as a period of sensible financial management, not something always shared by fellow league clubs.

Based on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, ASD Lighting has a reputation for innovation and quality and provides a range of products for domestic and commercial installations.

For the year ending June 30 2024, turnover was reported as £19.8m, down from £21.3m in the previous year. Sales to the UK were £17.9m, down from £19.8m in 2023 but in the rest of Europe, sales increased to £1.8m from £1.3m in 2023. Included in the £1.8m to Europe were sales of £1.1m to ASD Lighting Europe Ltd set up to distribute and partner with customers in Europe.

The financial results added: "Gross Profit is £7.0m (2023 £8.1m). Against rising material, utility and labour costs the gross profit margin remains strong at 35% (2023 38%). Administration costs at £7.6m remained the same at last year with increases in staff related costs being reduced by saving in other fixed costs.

"The year resulted in an operating loss (before interest and tax) of £0.6m compared to a profit of £0.5m last year. Profit after interest receivable and tax is £276k (£755k 2023)."

Advertisement
As reported by Rothbiz in March 2024, ASD Lighting continued to provide £1m in sponsorship and advertising to the football club when the Millers posted a loss before tax of £1.1m for the 12 months to June 30 2023.

The latest accounts from ASD show that the £1m in sponsorship continued in 2024.

Documents also show that: "At 30 June 2024 included within debtors was £5,204,737 (2023: £929,150) due from Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited. The outstanding balance is repayable on demand."

Also Included in other debtors is an amount of £12,961,391 due from R U Estates Limited, a company of which Tony Stewart and son Richard are directors. This is thought to have been established when the AESSEAL New York Stadium was constructed and all parties share banking facilities with Barclays.

The debt is split between £1m due within one year and £11,913,944 due after more than one year. The loan from ASD to R U Estates is unsecured and bore interest at 2% above base rate per annum until January 2021 when it began to bear interest at 1.15% above base rate. It is repayable over nine years in instalments.

Rotherham United's accounts for the period are due to be published within the next few months.

ASD Lighting website

Images: ASD

Read more...

News: MBO completed at Rotherham industrial pumps group

An equity buy-out has completed at Rotherham-based Industrial Pumps Group (IPG) Ltd with company Managing Director, Dave Carley, and Sales Director, David Stacey, taking full control of the business for the first time since they completed on a management buyout (MBO) in 2016.

The announcement follows a period of sustained growth and profitability for the company, which continued to perform well throughout the pandemic under the watch of its new owners, adapting its product offering and building its market share through the early adoption of change in practice and procedure.

The ambitious duo initially took over the business from its previous owner in 2016 as part of a management buyout deal facilitated by a £500k investment from UKSE – an organisation which focusses on helping businesses in former steel areas with investments, loans and premises.

Since then, Dave and David have led the team on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, and have implemented changes which has taken it from a steady local business, to one that is capable of capitalising on growth opportunities. Moving from a reseller of pumps to a business that is an added value designer, servicer and supplier.

They now have framework agreements with a number of the major water companies which shows their importance within the industry and have approached UKSE once again for a further loan to help the company grow further.

With a clear vision for growth, they initially joined the business as trainees in the 1990s. Their agile and ambitious approach has seen the business increase its turnover by £5m, and its headcount by 23.

This would not have been possible without the UKSE investment, which secured the company’s growing presence amongst water utility companies and original equipment manufacturers, while this latest deal enables the duo to acquire 100% of the shares in the business.

Advertisement
Industrial Pumps Group (IPG) was bought by the duo from its previous owner in 2016, where the pair had worked since trainee level in the 1990s.

The company continued to perform well throughout the pandemic, where the Directors showed a cool business head, pivoting the product offering and build IPG’s market share through the early adoption of change in practice and procedure.

UKSE said this was the right time to let Dave and David take full control in order to have autonomy to realise their ambitions.

Commenting on the equity buy-out deal Managing Director David Carley said the business will continue to grow organically and bring more job creation within the Rotherham area.

He went on to say that thanks to the structure of the 2016 equity investment from UKSE – an organisation which focusses on helping businesses in former steel areas with investments, loans and premises – the management team had now secured a 100% shareholding without incurring costs or penalties.

David said: “We are extremely grateful for the success and growth we have experienced over the past year and especially thankful for Steve and the UKSE team for the support we have received over the years.

“The initial investment helped to facilitate the expansion of Industrial Pumps across our customer base and create new jobs which meant we were able to secure the company’s future here in Rotherham.

“Furthermore, exit discussions were fair and straightforward over two rounds to suit our cashflow, with no penalties.”

“We believe we are a stronger and more valuable company for having worked with UKSE, and we remain committed to our original vision of continuing to grow, and to create further job opportunities in the local area.”

Steve Lyon, Area Manager at UKSE, said: “Working with Industrial Pumps Group has been an absolute pleasure over the last six years. The sustained growth of the business is a testament to the hard work and commitment the Directors have shown, we wish them the best of luck with their future growth ambitions.

“As ever we are delighted to have positively contributed to a business which is creating job opportunities and to have helped a local business retain its strong presence within the region.”

“Despite the team exiting us as an equity partner, they have recently approached us for further loan investment to help them expand further and we have been happy to support them again. As with all of the returns we make from our investments we will seek to invest this money in other local companies.”

Industrial Pumps website
UKSE website

Images: UKSE

Read more...

News: Manufacturer expanding into Rotherham with new 90,000 sq ft unit

Senior Architectural Systems, the UK’s largest privately owned aluminium fenestration solutions provider, is expanding its manufacturing capacity with the opening of a new facility in Rotherham.

With its head office in Doncaster, Senior offers an extensive range of aluminium architectural façade systems, plus it has its own powder coating facilities, and a fleet of eco delivery vehicles. The rising cost of energy prices has led to a surge in demand efficient aluminium fenestrations systems that comply with recently updated building regulations. Turnover for 2021 was over £40m.

The company has taken a new site on Mangham Road that will provide an additional 90,000 sq ft of usable storage and production space. The move is part of Senior’s wider strategic expansion plan to enhance the thermal-efficiency of its entire product range and to significantly increase production of its low U-value and UK patented PURe® aluminium windows and doors system.

The unit on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate was previously occupied by Hydro Components UK Ltd that was closed as part of a wider restructuring of its Extruded Solutions operations announced in 2020.

Advertisement
The new occupier is part of Senior’s wider strategic expansion plan to enhance the thermal-efficiency of its entire product range and to significantly increase production of its low U-value and UK patented PURe aluminium windows and doors system.

It is anticipated that Senior will commence production of its PURe range at the new Rotherham site in early 2023. Once the new site is fully operational, Senior will be able to maximise the space in its existing Denaby HQ to both increase the speed of its in-house powder coating facility and support the ongoing development of its full range of high-performance aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall systems.

Mark Wadsworth, managing director at Senior Architectural Systems, said: "Since launching our patented PURe windows and doors in 2015, we have seen demand continuously grow and so it was always our intention to expand our production capabilities. We have made a number of investments at our main Denaby site, so it was important that we could both complement and replicate this successful and sustainable manufacturing model by finding a site that was not only similar in size, but was also nearby. The new site in Rotherham fits the brief perfectly.

"We are excited to commence production of our PURe system in the new year and look forward to maximising this new capacity to continue to enhance the thermal-performance of our complete range of products.”

The new site in Rotherham will also provide valuable storage space to assist with Senior’s nationwide delivery service and coincides with the company's decision to close its distribution centre in Newport, Wales. All customers in Wales and the South of England will now be served by the two main facilities in South Yorkshire, with Senior’s branch in Livingston continuing to support orders to Scotland and Ireland.

Senior Architectural Systems website

Images: Senior Architectural Systems

Read more...

News: Metals firm recognised for international trade

SJM Alloys & Metals Ltd is celebrating a Queen’s Awards for Enterprise – the UK’s most prestigious business awards.

The company was established in 1993 and is headquartered in Loughton, Essex but has its main operations base in Rotherham. It is a dealer, processor and recycler of super alloys, specialty steels and refractory metal scraps.

For outstanding achievement in international trade, SJM will be able to fly The Queen’s Awards flag.

SJM deals in a wide range of special metals, with particular expertise in Cobalt & Cobalt Alloys, Nickel & Nickel Alloys, Tungsten & Tungsten Alloys and Molybdenum and serves the Automotive, Aerospace, Oil & Gas, Electronic, Medical, Foundry and Mining industries.

Advertisement
Investment was made to expand its warehouse facilities on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate last year to improve efficiency.

Overseas sales have increased year on year over three years from £16.1m to £40.8m a total growth of 152.7% with overseas sales accounting for over 90% of total sales. The company sells across Europe, USA and Asia and its top five markets currently are Germany, USA, Luxembourg, France and Japan. Its newest market is Japan.

The company wins the Queen’s Award for International Trade for Outstanding Short Term Growth in overseas sales over the last three years.

SJM Alloys & Metals website

Images: SJM

Read more...

News: Courier Logistics expands to better deliver for the SME community

Rotherham-based Courier Logistics, part of The APC network - the largest independent parcel delivery network in the UK - has opened a new operational parcel depot in the region.

The opening, the first of two planned in 2021, comes following significant growth for the business - having recorded 24% overall year-on-year growth - spurred by a continued surge in online shopping across the region amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Courier Logistics, which has its head office and a depot on Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, now has a new depot at 31 East, the last part of the former Dinnington Colliery to be redeveloped.

The new depot provides 29,000 sq ft of premium warehouse space, allowing the business to build on its Overnight and Sameday parcel collection and delivery service offerings to local businesses across all S postcodes, supporting growth of these businesses, and through the nationwide coverage of the APC parcel network, enabling them to reach an ever expanding national customer base.

Daniel Franey, director at Courier Logistics, said: "It’s so encouraging to see how businesses across Sheffield have proven their resilience and entrepreneurialism despite the challenges in the last year, with many of our customers thriving. SMEs across the region have had to adapt their business models, products, and accelerate their online presence in order to survive in recent months, and continue to do so. We are dedicated to supporting their agility and determination, providing them with improved service options and a local team on hand, working hard in partnership with them, to help them flourish in the years ahead."

Advertisement
Across the region, Courier Logistics' top five customers have achieved an average of 100% year-on-year growth. Among its top customers, the food and drink sector has shown the most significant growth locally, as consumers have found new ways of sourcing products they depend on through the pandemic, and in turn many SMEs have quickly adapted their business models to meet demands.

One example of this is local business, Abbeydale Brewery. Following the closure of pubs during last year’s lockdown the Sheffield based brewery quickly adapted its product range, supplying directly to smaller independent food and drink outlets, and also invested in its e-commerce site to supply directly to consumers, supporting changes in shopping habits. As a result of its agility Abbeydale Brewery saw a surge in online orders and within a week was sending out over 120 orders a night, ensuring that through an online presence and local delivery service, it could continue to supply its customers across the region and the rest of the UK.

Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive at APC Overnight, said: "The strength and resilience of the UK’s SMEs throughout the ongoing pandemic continues to shine through. Already in 2021, we are seeing further demand for delivery services, as consumers continue to shop online and businesses continue to rely on carriers to get these items delivered. The ongoing dedication and hard work of our colleagues at Courier Logistics will be key to supporting this, ensuring that the needs of customers are recognised, and working closely with them to ensure those needs are met."

Rotherham based developer EV Waddington Ltd has supplied much needed industrial and manufacturing accommodation at the 31 East site.

Courier Logistics website

Images: Courier Logistics

Read more...

News: Rotherham car components site closure on the cards

Hydro is closing its car components facility in Rotherham as part of a wider restructuring of its Extruded Solutions operations.

The site on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate is part of Hydro Components UK Ltd which offers surface finishing and mechanical fabrication solutions for the automotive industry. It specialises in aluminium fabrication.

Previously known as Sapa, Hydro is part of Norsk Hydro ASA, which is headquartered in Norway and one of the largest aluminium groups worldwide.

Hydro supplies to all UK based automotive manufacturers (Jaguar/Landrover, Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Aston Martin etc) and also exports approximately 20% of its turnover into mainland Europe (Volvo, Fiat, BMW).

Bosses at the firm said last year that there was a negative demand in Europe and North America for its extrusions products driven by weak macroeconomic development. In response, the company announced that its Extruded Solutions subsidiary was "taking firm measures in weak markets."

These measures included restructuring in Europe and North America with the full closures of its sites in Pinto (Spain), Redditch (UK), Rotherham (UK), and American sites at Belton (South Carolina) and Kalamazoo (Michigan). Plus its warehouses in Wakefield (UK) and Lodz (Poland), and its Dusseldorf office (Germany). Divestment in Chisineu Cris (Romania) was also announced.

Business is set to be largely transferred to other sites and additional restructuring and cost reduction initiatives are under way. Hydro has a number of other sites in the UK, not least at Gloucester where plans are being progressed for an expansion in order to create a one stop shop automotive standard manufacturing facility with all key processes under one roof.

Advertisement

Underlying EBIT (earnings before taxes) for Extruded Solutions decreased in Q4 of 2019 compared to the same quarter last year, from NOK 202 million in Q4 2018 to NOK 85 million. Results in all business units were lower than the same quarter last year, mainly driven by lower volumes due to the declining market, partially offset by higher margins. Results were positively impacted by insurance compensation of NOK 187 million related to a cyber-attack in March 2019.

Hilde Merete Aasheim, president and CEO of Hydro, said: "We have taken firm measures in a weak market. Our improvement program as well as cash release ambition are ahead of plan. Our improvement efforts will continue with full force, in line with our agenda towards lifting profitability and driving sustainability."

The Rotherham site has been taken over a number of times. Back in 2010, Swedish aluminium manufacturer, Sapa, completed the acquisition of the automotive related integrated roof rail business from Thule. Sapa formed a 50/50 joint venture between Orkla and Hydro in 2013 before Norsk Hydro's acquisition of Orkla's 50% ownership in Sapa in 2017.

Hydro website

Images: Google Maps

Read more...

News: Rotherham United post profit for Championship season

Rotherham United posted increased turnover and profit for the financial year that covered the team's last season in The Championship.

For the twelve months ending June 2019, holding company, ASD Lighting Holdings Ltd, was boosted by increased turnover at both the football club and the lighting manufacturing business.

The 18/19 season in the second tier of English football marked ten years since chairman Tony Stewart, founder of successful Rotherham firm, ASD Lighting saved the Millers in 2008 when he brought the then League Two club out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement.

The season ended in relegation for the team who went up against former European Cup winners, former Premier League winners, relegated clubs benefiting from parachute payments, clubs bankrolled by rich owners and clubs spending beyond their means in a bid to reach the top tier.

Accounts filed with Companies House show that turnover was £14m for 18/19, up from £10m in the previous season and higher than the £13m recorded the last time the Millers were in the Championship.

Profit before tax was £2.74m, up from a £500,000 loss the previous year and losses of over £1m in previous Championship seasons.

Unlike many clubs in the Championship, at Rotherham United, the wage bill sits well within its income, which is mainly made up of sponsorship, matchday income and central distributions via the Football League.

Last season saw extra income from late player trading and not being required to pay bonuses had the team stayed up. Season ticket sales have remained above the 6,000 mark.

Advertisement

Writing in the accounts, Tony Stewart, chairman of Rotherham United, said: "With collectivism and togetherness at the AESSEAL New York Stadium and a feeling that the players could have done no more to secure their cherished Championship status we enter League One with peace of mind that every player and member of staff will strive and focus on winning games to gain back that promotion."

The team currently sits within the playoff places of League One.

Commercial income dropped from £4.8m to £3m but the club continues to secure deals such as AESSEAL's decision to extend the stadium naming rights to 2023. ASD continues to support the club with sponsorship income of close to £1m in 18/19 - £2m less than in previous years.

The accounts for the holding company show that ASD Lighting, which has been manufacturing in the UK from their 200,000 sq ft factory for almost 35 years, increased turnover by over £1m to £25m for the year ending June 2019. Profit before tax increased slightly to £3.8m.

The report notes that slaes slowed in 2018 due to economic uncertainty but 2019 saw an upward trend in sales and profitability. The main areas of growth continue to be in new product ranges in highways and rail. Whilst the majority of business is done within the UK, the year also saw significant improvement in export sales, with sales doubling in the Far East.

RUFC website
ASD Lighting website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Tony's pride at OBE

One of Rotherham's leading lights has been awarded an OBE in the New Year's Honours List.

Tony Stewart, the managing director of Rotherham firm, ASD Lighting, and chairman of Rotherham United Football Club, is receiving the honour for services to business and the community in Rotherham.

Born in Sheffield and brought up in High Green with a twin brother and four other siblings, Stewart was a Yorkshire Champion for running the mile. After leaving High Green School he undertook an apprenticeship as an electrician before starting in business aged 26 in a fast growing electrical contracting firm.

Stewart was intrigued by infra red detectors and went on to combine them with lighting products which made them turn on "as if by magic" in 1981. After further design and development, and securing start up cash from the bank, it led to the formation of ASD Lighting, a Rotherham manufacturing success story.

The Barbot Hall company has had unrivalled success in the LED market and has invested heavily in facilities and R&D. It employs around 200 staff at its 200,000 sq ft factory. 2017 turnover at ASD increased 20% on the previous year to £26.2m due to increased sales in the company's street lighting products. Profits after tax were at £3.69m.

Advertisement

Stewart said: "I was totally stunned to see the letter informing me of the news.

"When my wife Joan asked me to sit down I thought it was bad news. Then I saw it, and I could not believe what I was reading. I felt a mixture of being quite flattered but also proud to have been recognised.

"This is also an honour for everyone who has worked tirelessly with me over the years, and for my family who have been a huge support.

"I know what has been achieved with Rotherham United will have brought so much joy, not just to me, but to thousands of our loyal supporters. We still have so much to achieve and I am optimistic and excited about our future.

"This honour is something I'll cherish forever."

Tony Stewart was one of a number of business people invited to the Town Hall with the aim of finding a way of resurrecting the borough's football league club after it fell into administration for the second time in 2008. He ended up going it alone and brought them out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement (CVA).

After the takeover came the decision to play home games at the now demolished Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, after working hard to get a deal to carry on playing at Millmoor, the club's home for over 100 years.

The club was charged with returning to play home games in its home town within four seasons by the Football League and Stewart, with the backing of his directors at ASD and the club, threw his drive, energy, business sense and money into creating the £20m New York Stadium on the edge of Rotherham town centre.

The iconic stadium hosted its first game in July 2012 and under Tony's ten year tenure the club has enjoyed three promotions, including two Play-off final victories at Wembley Stadium.

ASD Lighting website
RUFC website

Images: ASD Lighting / RUFC

Read more...

News: NIKKEN expand Rotherham innovation centre

Expanding engineering firm, NIKKEN Kosakusho Europe has recently agreed practical completion on the expansion of its flagship Innovation Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham.

With European headquarters on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate in Rotherham, Nikken enjoys a global dominance of the rotary table technology market and supply manufacturers operating in the aerospace, defence, motorsport, automotive and medical sectors.

In 2015 the company confirmed an investment of around £7m in new facilities on the AMP, creating its first production base outside Japan as part of a move to get closer to its customers.

Now the second phase is complete and will house a number of different elements to further the expansion of the European business. These include a dedicated resource for the provision of services associated with the technical partnership forged earlier this year between NIKKEN and Boeing, supporting the requirements of their first European production facility.

These resources incorporate a dedicated tool room and area for process optimisation, ensuring that the components produced by Boeing Sheffield are done so in the most efficient manner. Part of this includes a turnkey presetting and balancing operation that will streamline the entire process and provide Boeing with all their requirements.

Advertisement

Alongside this, a state-of-the-art laboratory has been installed for the design and testing of the latest Industry 4.0 developments, including software development and PCB design & assembly for the next generation of connected products. These industry-leading solutions enable the remote monitoring and intervention of industrial equipment to streamline processes and increase uptime.

There will also be a product testing area incorporated in to the facilities which will enable NIKKEN research engineers to benchmark and develop new solutions and space will be made available to work alongside customers on innovation - enabling product development without impacting on customers' production capacity.

Nikken now has 19,000 sq ft across the two phases.

Advertisement

Tony Bowkett, CEO and president of NIKKEN Europe, said: "At NIKKEN we are continually developing our technologies, advanced solutions and services. It's exciting times in our company's history and evolution.

"The phase 2 expansion of our research and development activities on the Advanced Manufacturing Park will create further high value career opportunities for local talented engineers.

"The daily mission of our resident engineers, in collaboration with local industrial and technical partners and our colleagues in Japan, is "to improve processes and develop ground-breaking solutions to be applied by our global customer base in their facilities in currently over 75 countries around the world" - engineered here in our NIKKEN Innovation Centre Europe - NICe."

This year, Nikken is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its Japanese parent company, Nikken Kosakusho Works Ltd. that was created in 1958. The European arm was incorporated in 1989 and so will be celebrating its 30th anniversary next year.

Nikken website

Images: Nikken Europe

Read more...

News: MGB apprentice into national final

An apprentice at a Rotherham company has reached the national finals of the Apprentice of the Year competition.

Now in their 15th year, the National Apprenticeship Awards showcase the diverse and growing range of sectors engaged with apprenticeships, whilst celebrating outstanding apprentices, employers and individuals who go above and beyond to champion apprenticeships across England.

Rothbiz reported in August that Liberty Speciality Steels was a regional employer of the year finalist for Yorkshire and the Humber and that Oliver Marsh from MGB Plastics reached the regional final for an individual award.

22-year-old Oliver, trained at the University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre in both mechanical maintenance and manufacturing engineering. At a ceremony in Leeds he was awarded the higher and degree Apprentice of the Year for Yorkshire and the Humber earning a place in the final in London at the end of November.

Oliver (pictured above, centre) said: "My apprenticeship has been life-changing. Working with a company that really values and supports young trainees has enabled me to grow both as an engineer and as a person. My mentors at MGB have been fantastic, giving me the insights and tools to help make a difference to the production process. I would recommend the apprenticeship route to anyone: I decided not to go to university even after securing a place and that was definitely the right decision."

Oliver works at OnePlastics' state-of-the-art MGB Plastics factory on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate and is no stranger to success having already scooped a major industry award for getting council crest plate changes down to 34 seconds from ten minutes, saving the company in excess of £137k-a-year in production process costs.

He is now part of a team appointed by the managing director to cut waste from the production line. MGB plastics is the UK's largest manufacturer of local authority wheelie bins and invest heavily in modern equipment.

Advertisement

Ian Cosgrove, training advisor at OnePlastics, says Oliver is definitely a "rising star" having won the British Plastics Federation Apprentice of the Year in 2017, and is delighted he has reached the regional finals of the national awards.

Ian also praised the centre, adding: "We are extremely fortunate in having such a well-equipped and professional training provider on its door step. Working closely with the AMRC Training Centre we developed Oliver's higher-level program, integrating a polymer diploma to run alongside his mechanical qualification.

"It was refreshing to work with a team with such a "can do" attitude, an attribute that is often lacking in training providers who push a "one size fits all" philosophy.

"At our Rotherham site, we mould more than 1.5 million units per year, and this figure is forecast to grow with the integration of cutting edge automation and technology.

"This business growth can only be achieved by engaging a highly effective multi-disciplined team of well-trained engineers and technicians. As we all know these people are extremely difficult to find. That is why OnePlastics has embraced the training levy programme and now has 18 apprentices, across a range of skills and ages, and we are committed to "growing our own.""

Advertisement

Nikki Jones, director of the AMRC Training Centre, added: "Oliver is one of our higher apprentices and an absolute credit to the AMRC Training Centre and to his company. During his apprenticeship, and beyond, he has displayed the right attitude, passion and commitment that companies are crying out for in manufacturing and engineering and being in the finals of the National Apprenticeship Awards 2018 is testament to that."

MGB Plastics website
AMRC Training Centre website

Images: AMRC

Read more...

News: ASD install "cobots" to boost productivity

Rotherham-based lighting manufacturer ASD, is embracing Industry 4.0 technology and becoming more productive, recently installing two "cobots" (collaborative robots) onto its street lighting production line.

Based on Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, ASD has a reputation for innovation and quality and provides a range of products for domestic and commercial installations.

Rothbiz reported in May on cobots, which differ from conventional industrial robots in that they feature technology that allows them to operate safely alongside human workers in a shared area. They are capable of operating with limited force and speed and are equipped with force-sensing to enable them to stop when they come into contact with an operator.

ASD Lighting, which has been manufacturing in the UK from their 200,000 sq ft factory for almost 35 years, operates a fast and efficient manufacturing processes. In-house specialists and state of the art technology allows them to meet the ever-changing requirements of their customers, whilst offering industry leading services and delivery times.

Advertisement

The installed cobot at ASD is capable of learning multiple tasks, so it can assist human beings. A collaborative robot is intended to compliment the human worker's capabilities, not take the place of a human worker.

Known as Robbie and Roberta, the two UR5 cobots have been installed by leading collaborative robot integrators Reeco Automation. Reeco, based in Wales, supply customers with solutions in automating systems using Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC/Cobots). They focus on providing the customer with an automated solution that will ultimately save them money and reduce production costs. They offer their customer's a solution of integrating collaborative robots with their existing factory equipment and employees.

Robbie and Roberta are now assisting the ASD team with three tasks; placing of the lenses and fixing the screws on the PCB boards and lenses of the popular street lights. These three tasks were highly repetitive and perfect for the implementation of automation.

With repetitive tasks, an increasing concern for manufacturers like ASD Lighting is Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) and the integration of cobots significantly reduces the risk for workers. From day one, ASD didn't want these cobots to replace jobs, their sole purpose was to improve the jobs for their workers by reducing the labour-intensive tasks.

Advertisement

Reece Sanderson, marketing administrator at ASD Lighting, said: "We wanted to increase productivity, reduce labour intensive tasks and reduce chances of RSI. That's why we've brought in Robbie and Roberta. No job losses have actually been made because we are actually making more street lights, so if anything, we are actually taking more staff on."

A spokesperson for Reeco Automation, added: "It's proven with factories that implement automation that they become more productive, therefore increasing jobs not removing them. This statement is very true within ASD Lighting, productivity has increased on the street lighting line, therefore more units are being produced everyday which has required additional staff to be employed further down the production line."

ASD Lighting website

Images: Reeco

Read more...

News: Significant sales increase at AESSEAL

Innovative Rotherham manufacturer AESSEAL has reported a significant 12.5% rise in sales for 2017 as it continues to invest.

With its global headquarters at Templeborough, the award-winning company manufactures mechanical seals for a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, food, water, mining and pharmaceuticals.

Group turnover rose to £170.6m in the year to December 31 2017 as the group benefits from the weakness of the pound. Organic sales growth was 6.75% on the previous year when adjusted for acquisitions and currency fluctuations.

Group net assets rose to £103.5m, a rise of 14.2% from 2016, and the group held a positive cash balance of £17.4m at year end, after increasing capital expenditure – which included investment of £6.8m in additional 9 and 11 axis machining capacity.

Advertisement

Chris Rea OBE, founder and managing director of AESSEAL, said: "Despite a climate of continuing political and economic uncertainty, the AES group has delivered a strong result for 2017 and is confident of progressing positively this year and beyond.

"The investment in 2017 is not only to service increased demand but also to support the group's stride to take advantage of digitalisation and the Internet of Things. Our confidence for the future is built on the excellence of our product and service offering and the business model and value proposition of the group, which is unique in the industry sector."

AESSEAL has recorded more than three decades of near constant growth under Rea's leadership and continues to innovate in order to remain ahead of competitors and deliver industry leading customer service levels.

The company's ethos is based around providing such exceptional service to customers that they need never consider alternative sources of supply.

Advertisement

Rea added: "Being located in South Yorkshire plays a key role in the success of the business. The steel industry heritage in the area means we have a skilled labour force.

"After 30 years of continued product development we believe we are in a very strong position - with a range of differentiated and enhanced patented technology for almost all Wet and Dry Gas Seal applications - and that we can secure as large a percentage of global applications as any other global mechanical seal supplier. Going forward our development will focus on emerging technologies and connecting the group's consultancy and reliability business digitally to its physical product range in order to offer the best possible service to customers."

AESSEAL employs 1,675 people across the globe, including 370 in Yorkshire. Following a £460,000 upgrade, the AESSEAL systems division at Barbot Hall Industrial Estate was recently officially opened.

AESSEAL website

Images: AESSEAL

Read more...

News: Tony talks of ten year tenure

Ten years to the day from being introduced to the Rotherham United fans at the final ever game at Millmoor, club chairman, Tony Stewart was discussing his journey with the Rotherham Pioneers.

The exclusive group for Rotherham businesses who want to promote the town, celebrate all that is good, and grow the Rotherham business community held its latest meeting at the New York Stadium - itself a key part in the club's recent history.

Stewart started in business 45 years ago becoming self employed. He admitted that he made no money but made lots of friends. His electrical contracting firm grew to employ 25 people in Sheffield.

In 1981, the enterprising mind saw the potential of PIR and the use of infra red detectors. He combining them with lighting products which made them turn on "as if by magic". After further design and development, and securing start up cash from the bank, it led to the formation of ASD Lighting, a Rotherham manufacturing success story. The dynamic firm grew quickly and moved from Eastwood to its current base on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate.

Tony (pictured top at Millmoor back in 2008) described some of his mantras for successful business, many of which have transferred into football: "We increase the knowledge we have by employing people - they are the gems. I constantly try to encourage staff - "Don't get down, get up.""

It appears to be working. 2017 turnover at ASD increased 20% on the previous year to £26.2m due to increased sales in the company's street lighting products. Profits after tax were at £3.69m.

Advertisement

Tony Stewart was one of a number of business people invited to the Town Hall with the aim of finding a way of resurrecting the borough's football league club after it fell into administration for the second time in 2008. He ended up going it alone and brought them out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement.

Stewart said: "I got the call from the council and having seen the success that Nick [Cragg] and Martin [Jenkinson] had had at Rotherham Titans, I thought I'll go down and have a look at Rotherham United."

He assessed the club's finances and decided that the club's commercial arm, whilst turning over around £3m a season, could be better.

"The plates were spinning at ASD and none were falling off, so I thought "I'll do it." he said. "It was a spur of the moment thing and it has been a massive learning curve."

After the takeover came the decision to play home games at the now demolished Don Valley Stadium in Sheffield, after working hard to get a deal to carry on playing at Millmoor, the club's home for over 100 years.

The club was charged with returning to play home games in its home town within four seasons by the Football League and as Stewart told the Rotherham Pioneers with pride: "I came, I promised, I delivered."

The £20m New York Stadium is on the edge of Rotherham town centre and hosted its first Millers game in 2012. Having hosted a number of high profile fixtures, it hosts the final of the 2018 UEFA Under-17s Championship on Sunday.

"The stadium is the big story and I'm also proud of the improvements to the training ground," added Stewart.

Rotherham United is currently battling to return to The Championship through the playoffs and Stewart spoke of the positivity around the club.

The chairman concluded: "This is the best time at Rotherham United I have known. The manager, Paul Warne, is a rookie but he is university educated and bright, and has the right character. Every one of the nine managers I've had here have spoken highly of him.

"We are now doing things right and I think success, whether it's this season or next, is around the corner.

"I've got red and white blood in my veins. I am passionate in everything I do and my passion isn't just on a matchday, it's seven days a week. I want the best for Rotherham and I think the best is still to come."

Jamie Noble, head of community at Rotherham United, also discussed the work of the club's sports trust at the event.

Jamie (pictured, above) said: "We would like to thank Rotherham Pioneers for coming across to the stadium, Rotherham United Community Sports Trust are not only looking to support the local community but also the local businesses with an aim to help make Rotherham a stronger and better community. Rotherham Pioneers group are a key part of the town and I feel the work they are doing in the local community is second to none."

Rotherham United website
ASD Lighting website
Rotherham Pioneers website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: MBO at long established family firm in Rotherham

Peter Lilleker, managing director of Rotherham-based Lilleson Engineering Services Ltd, together with his wife and business partner, Carol Lilleker, have sold the company to long-serving employee Tony Wade and his partner, Julie Mitchell.

Based on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate, the family run business was established in 1984 by Peter's father, Ernest Lilleker, as a manufacturer of electrical control panels and systems.

The company has supplied control panels and systems all over the world, from hydroelectric plants in India to the roof of the centre court at Wimbledon, through its many clients including Fairfield Control Systems Ltd, SCX Special Projects, BOC, British Steel, Bae Systems and Kvaerner.

Tony Wade, who has been with the company from the start, has bought the entire issued share capital together with Julie Mitchell for an undisclosed sum.

To ensure a smooth handover, Peter and Carol will remain in a consultancy role with the company for up to 12 months before retiring.

Neil Large, corporate partner in the Sheffield office of Lupton Fawcett LLP provided legal advice and assistance to Peter and Carol Lilleker on the deal.

Alex Ross at Sheffield-based Bell Buxton Solicitors advised the Management Buy Out (MBO) team. Paul Dawson and Martin McDonagh, partners at Sheffield accountants Hart Shaw LLP provided tax and accounting advice to both parties.

Advertisement

Peter Lilleker (pictured, third right), said: "It is difficult to believe that we started the business 34 years ago. Although my father is no longer with us I am sure he would have been proud of the success we have achieved over those years. Since Carol joined me in 1994, we have gone from strength to strength.

"Having started something from scratch it can be quite difficult handing over the reins to someone else. However in selling the company to Tony I know it is in very safe hands. He has been with us since the business started and it wouldn't be where it is today without his expertise and dedication over the years. I am confident the company will continue to go from strength under his and Julie's direction."

Advertisement

Tony is certainly looking forward to the new challenge. He added: "This is a great company, hence why I have remained here for so long. It is a new chapter in our lives and presents Julie and me with a great opportunity.

"Julie and myself are looking forward to working closely with Peter and Carol over the next 12 months as we learn about different aspects of running the company."

Neil Large of Lupton Fawcett (pictured, right), said: "It is not often you get an MBO when both side have people have worked together for so long. If there was ever a case for an MBO exit (rather than trade sale) then this was it. It is great that Peter and Carol can transfer the ownership of Lilleson Engineering Services Ltd to people they trust implicitly to continue to grow the business.

"It was an absolute pleasure to act for Peter and Carol on their exit and I am sure the business will go from strength to strength under the new ownership of Tony and Julie where it is in safe hands."

Lilleson Engineering website

Images: Lupton Fawcett

Read more...

News: B E Webbe opens self storage depot in Rotherham

B E Webbe, a self-storage company based in Derby, has opened its seventh depot, taking on a former woodworking facility in Rotherham.

GD Woodworking relocated from the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate to larger premises at nearby Canklow Meadows in 2016 leaving a 6,100 sq ft warehouse available.

In December, B E Webbe bought the Mangham Road property in a £1m deal and has since spent £300,000 fitting it out.

The company will operate from Unit One, and has created 20,000sq ft of storage space, comprising 105 individual units ranging in size from 15sq ft to 170sq ft.

Phase Two, which is planned to operate in April next year, will double the storage space available.

The building works consisted of demolishing the offices and other facilities, replacing mezzanine floors and building new offices, facilities and reception area together with toilets and loading bays.

Advertisement

Richard Blount, director at B E Webbe, said: "There is a definite need for such a self-storage facility in the Rotherham area.

"We are catering for anybody who has anything to store, whether its personal and home effects, business or archive items."

All units are individually locked and the depot is fully alarmed with 24 hour CCTV security.

B E Webbe has two self-storage facilities in Derby and others at Burton, Long Eaton, Nottingham, and Sutton-in-Ashfield.

GD Woodworking expanded into a new 80,000 sq ft factory to facilitate significant increase in staircase demand.

Andrew Ducker, director of GD Woodworking said: "The expansion has been a huge success and gives us an even stronger infrastructure to support our clients with everything that they need for high volume staircase projects."

B E Webbe website
GD Woodworking website

Images: B E Webbe

Read more...

News: Award-winning AESSEAL invests in Rotherham

Innovative Rotherham manufacturer AESSEAL continues to invest - with some £6.5m spent over the past year.

With its global headquarters at Templeborough, the £150m turnover company manufactures mechanical seals for a wide range of industries, including oil and gas, food, water, mining and pharmaceuticals.

£5.5m has been invested in new state-of-the-art machinery along with building refurbishments totalling around £1m over the past year.

Following its £460,000 upgrade, the AESSEAL systems division at Barbot Hall Industrial Estate will be officially opened by President of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), Carolyn Griffiths, later this month.

Griffiths will then join AESSEAL's founder and managing director, Chris Rea and other engineering industry leaders for the annual IMechE dinner at the Cutlers' Hall, Sheffield.

Advertisement

This month also saw a new £1m machining centre go into operation at the AESSEAL Global Technology Centre and Special Product Division at Templeborough.

The 11 axis Nakamura Tome Super NTX features a unique parts handling system, designed and developed by AESSEAL. It provides super-fast production times and will improve operational efficiency as well as the quality of the core components of mechanical seal products manufactured at the site.

The Nakamura is the last of eight new machines which have been installed at AESSEAL sites in Rotherham and Bradford in the past year, creating more than 20 jobs and increasing production by 17%.

In 2017, HRH The Duke of York was back in Rotherham to officially open a new £500,000 investment in its testing facility.

For the year ending December 2016. Sales were up 6% on the previous year to hit £152m and profit was up by 14% to £21m.

Our second 11 Axis Nakamura being delivered to our global headquarters #aesseal #mechanicalengineering #engineering #behindthescenes #global #nakamuratome #nakamura #investment #customerservice #manufacturing #mechanicalseal #delivery #workshop #ukmanufacturing #factory #technology #machining #machinist

A post shared by AESSEAL (@aesseal_plc) on Mar 18, 2018 at 3:34am PDT

Fellow professionals in the British Pump Manufacturers' Association (BPMA) selected Chris Rea to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the recent Pump Industry Awards, citing his "significant and consistent contribution the pump industry" over his 39 year career.

Chris Rea, managing director at AESSEAL, said: "To be given a Lifetime Achievement Award by my peers is a tremendous honour and one which came completely out of the blue.

"I've always considered the success of AESSEAL to be the result of a team effort involving everyone from our top engineers to our newest apprentices.

"Our new machinery can only add to our efficiency, reliability and award-winning customer service but the investment doesn’t stop there – we're now working on future investment plans for the rest of 2018 and beyond."

AESSEAL website

Images: BPMA / AESSEAL

Read more...

News: Millers tackle losses in relegation season

Rotherham United managed to reduce its losses in its most recent financial accounts which relate to the season in which the club was relegated from The Championship. A season in which the team lost 33 times on the pitch.

Having switched its reporting year to tie in with the football season, the borough's football league club has posted its results for the year ending June 2017. It shows that income levels were maintained at £13m, only slightly down on the £13.3m reported in the previous year.

A loss before tax of £1.24m was recorded, an improvement from the £1.48m reported in 2016.

The financial performance is linked to the on pitch performance of the team and the reported loss is mainly due to high wage levels and administration expenses.

Wages rose from £4.8m in 2014 to £9.4m in 2016 during the time in The Championship and were recorded at £8.6m for 2017. Staff numbers at the club increased during the year from 130 to 161, mainly in sales, matchday and ground staff.

Despite the Football League's Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, many clubs in the division take risks in the hope of reaching the Premier League and the financial benefits that come with it. However, at Rotherham United, the wage bill sits well within its income, which is mainly made up of sponsorship, matchday income and central distributions via the Football League.

Average league attendance slipped below 10,000 as the team struggled to get results but the number of season tickets remained above 6,000. Income from matches and tickets was slightly down on the previous year to £2.26m from £2.46m.

Advertisement

For previous seasons, Rotherham United will have received between £2m and £3m in "solidarity payments" from the Premier League but this has jumped following the negotiation of the biggest ever TV deal for the Premier League. Total central distributions at Rotherham United went from £4.86m in 2016 to £6.96m in 2017.

Solidarity payments are likely to have dropped significantly now that the club plays in League One but it is also likely that wages and expenses will be lower.

The latest accounts show that commercial income dropped from £4.94m in 2016 to £2.92m in 2017. This is largely due to the way in which the chairman's firm backs the club.

ASD Lighting put in around £1m to the club in the year in the form of sponsorship. Chairman Tony Stewart, is the successful local businessman and owner of Rotherham lighting manufacturers, ASD Lighting. He saved the Millers in 2008 when he brought the then League Two club out of administration via a Creditors Voluntary Agreement.

ASD put in £2.9m in sponsorship in 2016 and has also extended a loan to the club of £3.8m.

The Barbot Hall firm recently reported on its own finances which showed an impressive increase in sales and profits. Turnover increased 20% on the previous year to £26.2m due to increased sales in the company's street lighting products. Profits after tax were at £3.69m.

Accounts for the period are not yet available for R U Estates Ltd, the company created to develop and operate the club's £20m New York Stadium, and ASD Lighting Holdings, the holding company for Rotherham United Football Club (RUFC) Limited and ASD Lighting PLC.

RUFC website
ASD Lighting website

Images: RUFC

Read more...

News: Builders' merchant making Rotherham move

Builders' Merchant Co Ltd (BMCo Ltd), one of the largest independent builders' merchant in the Humber area, is moving into new premises in Rotherham.

The family firm has a long tradition of supplying timber and building materials throughout North Lincolnshire. It currently operates from a purpose built four acre site in Scunthorpe, and have recently added a 10,700 sq ft specifically designed timber store and sales office.

As part of the firm's expansion, BMCo Ltd, is securing two units on the popular Barbot Hall Industrial Estate in Rotherham where it will operate a trade counter, selling to registered trades people.

Advertisement

Barbot Hall Industrial Estate is home to a number of well known occupiers including Euro Car Parts, ASD Lighting, Dulux Decorator Centre and Screwfix Direct.

14 - 16 Stadium Court has been marketed by commercial property agents, Knight Frank. Totaling 4,009 sq ft and 4,026 sq. ft, BMCo Ltd has recently secured planning permission to install new fencing, entrance gates, signage and flagpoles at the site.

Offering modern industrial accommodation with a generous yard area, the units typically comprise of warehouse accommodation with some benefiting from ancillary office, workshop and toilet accommodation.

Creating a number of new jobs, BMCo Ltd has already begun recruiting for a branch supervisor, business development manager, warehouse assistant, a driver and a counter assistant.

BMCo Ltd website

Images: BMCo Ltd

Read more...

News: Awards success for OnePlastics apprentice

An apprentice at the state-of-the-art OnePlastics Rotherham facility has picked up a major industry apprenticeship award for his role in helping the UK's largest manufacturer of wheelie bins reduce the cost of its production processes by more than £135,000 a year.

MGB Plastics is part of the OnePlastics group and the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate facility produces around two million wheelie bins per year.

Oliver Marsh, a University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre apprentice working at OnePlastics, was the clear winner in the plastic industry's equivalent of the Oscars – Polymer Apprentice of the Year Award, the official ceremony for which will be held in London next month.

Barnsley-born Oliver, said: "It's a privilege and an honour to get this award. Working at MGB has been brilliant; the company has given so much support and encouragement. My mentors at work have taught me how to use lean techniques and processes to drive improvements in productivity and performance."

Advertisement

Having recently invested more than £25m in advanced technology, including a further 2700 tonne Krauss Maffei injection moulding machine, the company was equally keen to invest in its human capital: training the next generation of polymer engineers who will maximise the impact of this investment in its three plants at Rotherham, Tamworth and Hull.

Gary Blanshard, technical manager at MGB Plastics, said: "We decided that the best way forward was to get someone on board who had no pre-conceived ideas of how things should be done. The only way to do this was to train them from scratch.

"We invited the AMRC Training Centre to visit us and discuss what they could offer in the way of apprenticeships. They then advertised for a Technical Apprentice and created a short list of candidates. After an extensive interviewing, Oliver was offered the position and began his apprenticeship with us.

"Having gained knowledge of CAD at the AMRC Training Centre, he has used this to great effect with us. He used CAD to model the fit of our lids, which some customers had identified as an issue, and found a mismatch between the hinge fixing pin and the bin mating hole. He redesigned the pin and improved the tolerances using CAD. Having tested a prototype and run moulding trails on the new hinge pin, he proved out the fit and function through assembly trials."

Advertisement

It is Oliver's work in improving the moulding process that has most impressed the company. By using the lean principles taught to him by his close mentors at the plant, the change-over process from one council crest to another has turned the operation "into the polymer equivalent of a Formula One pit stop – fast, efficient and very slick."

Bosses estimate that this improvement alone is saving the business in excess of £137,000 a year by getting the plate changes down to just 34 seconds from ten minutes.

The 21-year-old apprentice is now looking at how the firm's existing equipment might need to be uplifted to meet new standards for the industry. "If there is a productivity-critical issue, Oliver is in the mix," added Blanshard.

MGB Plastics website
AMRC Training Centre website

Images: UKSE

Read more...