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Increasing global demand for specialised services

水曜日, 14 1月 2009

IT might be located in the heart of rural North Yorkshire, but Slingsby Advanced Composites is a global leader in the design and manufacture of structural composite products for the aerospace, defence, mass transit and energy supply industries.

Despite its size the Kirkbymoorside-based manufacturer boasts some of the world’s largest defence and commercial companies as clients including BAE and Lockheed Martin. Export represents around 30% of turnover.

Among its impressive list of products are the next generation of unmanned aircraft, futuristic Eurofighter pilot helmets tested to withstand speeds of 700mph on pilot ejection, and stealth submarine rudders and hydroplanes.

The privately owned company, which employs around 150 staff and has a second site in Prestwick, Scotland, has not only seen a 10% rise in like-for-like sales, but is experiencing increased demand for its highly specialised services.

Officially founded in 1939 as a glider manufacturer, the firm went on to grow its reputation well beyond UK shores. Its famous T67 Firefly training aircraft has sold across the world, and although no longer in production, maintenance and support for the popular two-seater plane is still provided by Slingsby.

A management buyout in 2006 built upon a decision to move away from being a plane manufacture to composite specialist. It’s a strategy that managing director Steven Boyd has proved prudent as recession takes hold, “We have a broad spectrum of technology,” he explained.

“By communicating with our customers we can understand their needs and provide solutions. We also have all the accreditation needed to meet strict regulatory requirements, which many large firms don’t have.

“Our size also means we are innovative and flexible. For example, it took us four months to finish one project – something the client told us would have taken them two years to complete.”

For now, the firm is continuing to focus its attention on aerospace defence, but is always look for the next emerging market.

“We took a decision five years ago as to which way the market was headed and were right,” continued Mr Boyd, “Next year looks set to be another good year for us but we are always looking for new opportunities.”