Upbeat and optimistic
Mike Blowers of Ladbrook is celebrating new investments and orders.
Ladbrook Engineering is expanding its presswork and punching capabilities and winning new orders.
The Norfolk-based company is celebrating a recent investment in two new pieces of manufacturing equipment and a healthy order book for 2010. The first major investment has been the acquisition of a 100-ton Cushion Press that enables Ladbrook to press intricate metal covers. The second major investment has been the acquisition of a computer-controlled punch press, capable of fast and accurate pre-programmed repetitive work.
"Both machines have been key to winning new contracts in new markets," said Mike Blowers, managing director of Ladbrook. "The new 100-ton press is currently pressing metal parts for pressurised vessels and the punch press is busy making enclosures for electronic traffic signs. It may have been a brave decision to make such major investments with so much uncertainty around, but we have a great team of engineers and production staff here at Ladbrook. With the right people and the right technology, I think we are in very good shape for the future."
Ladbrook is now close to being a 75-year-old company and still remains a close-knit family affair with the traditional values of service and quality. Ladbrook are also proud that they have not had to consider any redundancies and that staff turnover is extremely low.
"From board level right down to the workshop, Ladbrook still retains its passion for engineering," said Mike Blowers. "Ladbrook has a culture of wanting to do things right and wanting to succeed. Even now, after almost 75 years, we are providing components for many brands that are recognised worldwide for their quality and performance. This is what we thrive on. It's always good to know that we are making a difference."
Three years ago, Ladbrook made the decision to diversify and introduce 'metal spinning' to their range of services. Again, this meant considerable investment in equipment, training and marketing. This investment has resulted in a number of new customers and Ladbrook finding new markets such as the medical sector, road sign manufacture and decorating equipment.
"I think we have done well," said Mr Blowers. "We have grown organically through a recession and we are in great shape to go forward. I think we've achieved this because we have never been ones to rest on our laurels. All of us have been working flat out, chasing new business, exploring new technologies and making sure that we exceed expectations on every project".
Ladbrook’s history dates back to the production of “metal L-Plates” and also the production of soldier’s mess cans during the war.
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