A manufacturer of fire doors has invested in new machinery to help it increase its efficiency and production capabilities after securing a new round of funding.
Birmingham-based Knowles makes timber fire safety and security doorsets, working with construction clients and local authorities.
To support growing demand, Knowles decided to purchase three new pieces of manufacturing machinery, using a £400,000 investment secured from Lloyds Bank.
The machinery will increase the overall speed and efficiency of the manufacturing process, reducing lead times and waste materials, while an increase in capacity will enable the business to develop its presence in new fire build markets.
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The 100-strong Witton business has been run by the Knowles family for the past 100 years but last year was acquired by Doncaster-based Sentry Fire Safety Group.
Knowles' managing director Steve Horner said: "We are seeing significant demand from construction firms in the º£½ÇÊÓƵ which are building rapidly to help tackle housing shortages in some of our major cities and are increasingly focused on fire safety.
"In particular, we are seeing increasing demand for high-rise residential buildings in many London boroughs as well as cities such as Birmingham and Manchester and there's no sign of this slowing down anytime soon.
"The new machinery will help us respond to the evolving needs of our existing markets as well as exploring new areas for expansion.
"Technology in the manufacturing sector is developing fast. We've been able to update our machinery and in turn maximise new opportunities for growth."
Claire Carr, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, added: "We have worked with Knowles for more than ten years, funding the business' machinery needs and property purchases, and have remained by its side throughout the acquisition and subsequent period of rapid growth.
"We are committed to supporting the construction industry by enabling key suppliers such as Knowles to grow as well as ensuring that Midlands manufacturers can stay ahead of innovation in the sector with investment in the latest technology.
"We look forward to working with Knowles as the business enters its next centenary."
