FACTORY EXTENSION WILL MEET GROWING DEMAND FOR WIRE PRODUCTS

Following a £3 million investment, with refurbishment and building works taking over 9 months to complete, the new 87,000 sq ft facility, is situated just a short distance from William Hughes' existing factory. Incorporating sales, design, engineering, and manufacturing activities all within the same site, the new facility will provide much needed additional space for manufacturing operations in support of the continued growth of the business. The opening will be officiated by Bob Walter, Conservative MP for North Dorset together with the Directors of William Hughes and local dignitaries. Max Hughes, managing director of William Hughes commented: "We are delighted to announce the opening of our new factory which continues our success story. The extra space will enable us to further expand our business and also provide a platform to take on larger projects which previously we have been unable to accommodate." Representing an increase in floor space of over 60%, the new building, will be established as the company's 'Centre of Excellence' for precision spring making and welded assemblies. Established in 1790, William Hughes is a major local employer in Stalbridge with over 100 employees. Notable milestones in the company's success include in 2004, the opening of a manufacturing facility in Bulgaria to service growing demand in central Europe, and in 2008 the takeover of Baumann Springs and Pressings UK which helped to broaden the company's product range and customer base. The investment in the new facility demonstrates the company's commitment to provide its customers with the best products and most efficient manufacturing processes. William Hughes now has a group turnover in excess of £12½ million and is well established as a leading global supplier of wire based products and assemblies. Its customers include many well known brands in the automotive, aerospace, medical, construction and hydraulics industries.