THERE is one thing that manufacturing hates more than anything else and that is lack of clarity and direction.
In the summer of 2016 some thought that a united Europe was the best way forward – then suddenly we found we were on the road to an unknown place. But at least there seemed a direction and with a weak pound, the market was alive again.
For anyone buying material from overseas it’s a problem but if the product is then being sold overseas there is a net gain, and it appears British manufacturing is in demand.
Such has been the case for Wellingborough-based Turnell and Odell, which has taken the opportunity to be positive and invest at a time when others might be cautious. This year has seen some massive changes – two new Doosan lathes, a new Haas Vertical Machining centre and a new Hass 5 Axis Machining Centre.
But the investment hasn’t just been in machines – Turnell and Odell is committed to having the best skilled engineering workforce that is possible and has recruited a lot of people this year – increasing the working day. The company is now running a two-shift system to ensure on-time delivery is met and customer satisfaction is remains high.
As members of the 5% Club – a nationally-recognised apprentice training organisation – Turnell and Odell also continues to invest heavily in training – two more apprentices have joined the business and, as well as general apprenticeships, there are three people studying Higher Level Apprenticeships to obtain HNC qualifications.
Managing Director Clive Odell said: “2017 has been an interesting year – we have invested into every sector of our business and hopefully we are in a very strong position to cope with whatever we are faced with next – whether that is free trade with Europe or not we see a great future for British engineering and manufacturing which is still lightly regarded.
“We believe that over 50 per cent of our products end up overseas – not through our direct export but by our customers exporting, but what we want to see is a clear policy and some decisions made so we can make longer term plans.”
For further information contact the company on 01933 222061 or see the website at www.toengineering.co.uk