Over the past few weeks, Sam Sleight has had the pleasure of calling in on several of our valued Made in Yorkshire members, spotlighting the fantastic work they’re doing.
Independent, family-run UK SMEs are at the heart of our mission to strengthen British industry. It’s companies like Crompton Controls, Yorkshire Profiles, and Garthwest that ensure our manufacturing sector keeps moving forward. Despite operating in very different sectors, each one truly epitomises the dynamic, ambitious spirit that defines Yorkshire-based industry.
In this article, we’re highlighting what’s been happening on their shop floors (and behind the scenes), and we’ll also share some insights gleaned from the visits.
Crompton Controls
Building on a proud heritage that stretches back more than a century, Crompton Controls is forging ahead by embracing modern technology and adapting to new market demands. In the last couple of years, they’ve enjoyed record-breaking sales and healthy profits – something they’re modest about, but it truly is worth celebrating!
- Investing in Automation: Crompton Controls has introduced a state-of-the-art automated milling machine and, more recently, an innovative automated wiring machine (the first of its kind in the UK). These additions will help increase capacity and prevent them from turning work away, enabling the company to pursue exciting new opportunities in data centres, battery manufacturing, hospitals, and more.
- New Software & Processes: The team is also adopting new software to support its automated machinery. This 3D design approach allows them to preconfigure and prep wiring looms more efficiently, pushing them another step closer to full “Industry 4.0” capability.
- Eye on Emerging Markets: Such high demand for their specialist electrical control panels has led Crompton Controls to promote Andrew Agar to BMS (Building Management Systems) Manager, paving the way for further partnerships with major energy providers and carbon-reduction initiatives.
Yorkshire Profiles
For Yorkshire Profiles, it’s all about precision, flexibility, and meeting the broad requirements of a wide-ranging client base. Their team has earned a reputation as an approachable yet highly capable sheet metal specialist, offering services that range from laser cutting and deburring to fabrication, welding, and finishing.
- Advanced Laser Cutting Capacity: Multiple laser cutters – some of which have fully automated loading and unloading towers – allow for extensive unmanned operation. Last summer, they invested in a new machine to expand capacity for bigger jobs and faster turnaround times.
- In-House Nitrogen Generation: Generating their own nitrogen keeps the cutting process efficient and cost-effective, allowing Yorkshire Profiles to pass those benefits directly on to customers. This also makes the business more resilient and sustainable.
- Diverse Customer Base: Whether it’s bespoke furniture, agricultural machinery, high-end audio enclosures, or even military components, Yorkshire Profiles is well-versed in a variety of sectors. Their ability to deliver precise, reliable service has put them in a strong position for the future.
Garthwest
Hull-based Garthwest is a family-run packaging and display business that balances traditional customer service values with modern design and manufacturing techniques.
- Steady Growth and Resilience: Though the packaging world has seen its fair share of ups and downs lately – particularly with rising material costs and shifting customer demands – Garthwest remains healthily profitable by staying agile and diversifying whenever needed.
- Packaging & Point of Sale (POS): Around 90% of Garthwest’s output is corrugated packaging, but they also specialise in designing and producing POS displays. Their expertise really shines when creating eye-catching solutions for retail campaigns.
- Focused on Innovation: Keen to keep a competitive edge, Garthwest has been developing its digital presence through SEO and online marketing. Despite going up against some large, integrated packaging giants, they continue to carve out a niche by offering top-quality service and collaborating with partners to navigate challenges in retail and supply chains.
A Few Words from Sam
My recent visits to these three companies have really showcased the best of what Yorkshire manufacturing has to offer: hard work, mutual support, and a keen eye on the future. From Crompton Controls introducing advanced automation, to Yorkshire Profiles bolstering production with new equipment, to Garthwest expanding its service offerings and digital reach, there’s a great deal of optimism across the board.
It’s exactly this kind of forward-thinking approach that makes the Made in Group network so special: sharing best practices, sparking collaborations, and championing one another’s achievements. It has been a pleasure to see how each of these businesses is forging new opportunities and building solid foundations for long-term success.
I’m sure there’ll be plenty more articles like this in the run-up to summer as I continue visiting members throughout the region. For now, here’s to the continued success of Crompton Controls, Yorkshire Profiles, and Garthwest – and to seeing even more Yorkshire manufacturers taking the spotlight in the months ahead!