The global automotive supplier Brose revealed today that it has committed £15 million to the expansion of its Coventry facility.
The investment programme has been driven forward by increasing orders and volumes.
These factors also require increased staffing and Brose UK said it will take on almost 100 employees in the next 12 months to support demand. This will take Brose UK workforce to around 280 people.
Fourteen apprentices have already been taken on to ensure the company is growing its own talent in a sustainable manner.
Brose UK’s investment is important at a time when the UK is looking to build capability and capacity in the domestic automotive supply chain.
Thomas Kohlbauer, Managing Director, commented: “The investments we are making now and in coming years will ensure we remain a key element of a world-class manufacturing supply chain.”
In 2013, Brose UK will look to localise its own supply chain for UK manufacturing. It recently switched supply of key components to two UK companies including one in the West Midlands and will be looking to source more local suppliers in coming months.
Explaining this strategy, Mr Kohlbauer said: “Sourcing locally will allow us to stay competitive and reduces the exchange rate risk even further. We expect the very best from our local suppliers and a commitment, from both parties, to develop long-term partnerships.”
Brose, a German family-owned manufacturer, has been operational in the UK since 1989. Its 11,000 sq metre facility in Coventry makes a range of window regulators and adjuster systems for front and rear seats. Current customers include Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, Toyota and Volvo.
