Trade kitchen and joinery supplier Howdens has opened a new multimillion-pound factory extension at its existing site in Howden, Yorkshire, as part of its broader strategy to increase manufacturing in the UK. The official opening on 27th January of a state-of-the-art, high-gloss kitchen door frontal line, was attended by David Davis, MP for Haltemprice and Howden, as well as senior company representatives and members of the press. Guests were welcomed to the opening with a guided tour of the new extension and presentation by Howdens’ apprentices and members of its on-call fire service.
Representing a significant investment into UK manufacturing, the new production line measures over one kilometre in length from end to end and is one of the largest of its type in Europe. Once fully commissioned the company will manufacture over 2million kitchen door frontals and décor ends in high-gloss finishes per year.
Howdens currently imports these products from Italy, and the new line will enable more production to move to the UK, at the same quality as it can source externally but at a lower cost and reduced lead time. The company has also recently invested in a second high-speed painted architrave and skirting line, which more than doubles its capacity, enabling the company to service in-house the substantial increase in demand for these products.
Howdens is already a large employer in the area, but it is expected that the continued investment in its UK manufacturing operation will create up to 100 new jobs for the area, including machinists and engineering technicians.
David Davis said: “Howdens is a fantastic success story, providing quality products, and creating jobs and opportunities with this welcome investment in the region.”
Lee Parish, director of manufacturing, Howdens, added: “We are continuing to invest in increasing capacity at our two major manufacturing sites in the UK to support Howdens ambitious expansion plans in the UK but also internationally. The new factory extension strengthens our commitment to UK manufacturing and provides our trade customers with more high-quality kitchen and joinery products at the best local price, while always being in stock.”
Pictured are Howdens chief executive Andrew Livingston, left, and the Rt Hon David Davis MP, right, opening the new production line.
