Expanding manufacturer trebles factory space

The company is to move to a new 170,000 square feet production site, over three times larger than its existing factory but will remain in Banbury, where it has been established since its launch in the 1940s, demonstrating continuing commitment to the town and its local workforce. Completion on the purchase of the new site took place on 20th March 2012. The expansion means employment opportunities, exemplifying a resurgence in the UK's engineering sector. Norbar is a family run company and the world's leading specialist in the design, development and production of torque tightening and measuring equipment. Managing director Neill Brodey explained that Norbar is strongly committed to continuing to manufacture in the UK. "This is our fourth location within Banbury. Our last move was in 1984, which we managed over an Easter weekend! This time it will be a phased operation lasting until 2014, involving the relocation of large sophisticated machines and highly sensitive calibration equipment for our UKAS accredited torque laboratory," he said. Norbar plans to increase its current 240-strong workforce by up to 30 new employees this year and further recruitment is planned as the changeover gathers pace. In June 2012, a quarter of Norbar's workforce will move to the new factory in Wildmere Road, about 1.5 miles from its current premises. Come and talk to Norbar Torque Tools at the forthcoming FAST Exhibition on 26th April at the Pavilions of Harrogate and hear more about the latest developments.