Britannia Fire has invested more than £1m in the refurbishment of its factory in Norfolk, UK. The investment comes in direct response to growing demand for its groundbreaking P50 range of fire extinguishers which are both cost-effective and environmentally-friendly.
The company has produced fire extinguishers from its factory in Ashwellthorpe near Norwich for more than 50 years, with its steel models discontinued last year in favour of the innovative P50. The refurbishment has involved a total reconfiguration of the factory layout and the installation of new machinery to increase P50 production and significantly reduce lead times.
Traditional, steel fire extinguishers are prone to corrosion and must be serviced annually to ensure they remain fit for purpose. In contrast, the P50 composite extinguishers last 20 years and only need professional servicing every decade, saving customers time and money. Free from PFAS chemicals and easily recyclable, they are better for the environment. P50s are also multi-purpose and can be used on Class A, B and electrical fires. This reduces the number of extinguishers needed in each location and eliminates confusion during emergencies.
New machinery at the factory includes a larger winding machine, which is used to attach super-strength aramid fibre to the P50 cylinders. This will increase P50 production by 150%, while the reorganisation of the space will help to streamline processes. An obsolete oven and shot blaster have been removed to make way for a new dispatch bay; all lighting, electrics and work stations have been upgraded; and a brand-new extension building provides much needed office space and a canteen area for staff.
Andy Spence, Joint Managing Director of Britannia Fire, comments:
“It’s not surprising that composite fire extinguishers like the P50 are in demand, as they present a win-win for customers looking to save costs and reduce their environmental impact. By the end of last year, we were manufacturing around the clock to keep up with orders, with customers waiting around 12 weeks for delivery. With the new machinery and refurbished factory, we’re more than doubling our output. Lead times are reducing already, and we’ll soon be able to bring this down to just three or four weeks.”
He continues:
“The fit-out was completed swiftly, within a matter of weeks, and the transition was expertly handled by our team who navigated any potential disruption to ensure production continued throughout. We now have a modern, organised, light and spacious working environment which better suits our current needs and our plans for future growth.”
Britannia Fire’s continued success has led to the creation of five new jobs at the company so far this year. Those previously working on the ceased metal fire extinguisher lines received training and have been redeployed to new positions.
Further expansion plans include creating an additional storage facility for raw materials, as well as a two-storey office building to provide further office space and meeting rooms.
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