The new Headquarters of the EEF has officially been opened by his Royal Highness the Duke of York on the Team Valley.
The manufacturers’ organization in the North East welcomed their royal visitor to EEF House as he greeted staff and range of local manufacturing companies.
The Duke involved himself in discussions about skills and training with several smaller manufacturing companies and spoke to them about the issues involved in taking on engineering apprentices.
He met leaders of many North East based manufacturing companies and showed keenness to understand more about the vast range of products and business activities.
Manufacturing in the North East still remains a hugely important contributor to its economy and it is estimated that nearly 18% of the economy is based on manufacturing compared to 12% elsewhere.
Phil Kite, from Astrum UK and chairman of the EEF NE regional board said: “We were delighted to receive The Duke to open our new facility. Manufacturing remains key to the growth our region’s economy and employs highly skilled people, making high value products.”
“We were particularly encouraged with the enthusiastic level of the support from His Royal Highness over the importance of engineering apprentices, he urged companies of all sizes to invest and develop these young, talented people,” he added.
Andy Tuscher, regional director for EEF said: “The Duke was well aware of the importance of manufacturing to the North Eastern economy, and he was supportive of the efforts of our NE manufacturers and wished them continuing success.”
This new base for EEF plans to support and reflect some of the engineering heritage and tradition of the North East. The building has an industrial ambience and is intended to become a hub for engineering and manufacturing in the region. Companies will be encouraged to use the facilities for meetings and conferences that will support and promote all aspects of manufacturing.
Shelley Debere
