Factory move increases staff by 50 per cent.
27 July 2010
A relocation grant has helped a Shelton company increase its workforce by 50 per cent. Olympus Engineering Ltd used to operate out of a small two-storey former pottery factory in Hanley but has been helped to move to much bigger, state-of-the-art premises in Shelton thanks to a grant from Reroot – RENEW’s innovative business relocation grant.
Reroot has supported dozens of local businesses affected by regeneration activity and is having a significant impact. The scheme helps businesses affected by local regeneration to relocate to more suitable premises. It also provides free business support and advice.
Established in 2000 by managing director Neil Blood, Olympus has grown rapidly to become a significant force in the manufacture of precision components with an international customer base.
Explained Neil: “Reroot has provided essential funding to smooth the relocation experience at a time when economically things were very tough. It has helped make the relocation more expedient and facilitated less disruption to the company.
“The new premises will allow us to increase our staff from approximately 100 to 150 personnel with even further expansion prospects available from the site. The impact of operating from a showcase facility will significantly improve the company’s ability to attract prestigious new customers.
“The site layout has been specifically designed with the business needs in mind. Single-story open-plan manufacturing will have a very positive benefit on productivity, and the high bay construction means that the company can now offer larger component manufacture.
“Also these well-equipped air-conditioned facilities will improve employee welfare.”
