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Icopal invests in its UK future

3 Dec 10 Icopal is currently undertaking a major programme of investments in its Manchester based UK production facility.

With significant improvements already underway the move is set to underpin the future of this world reference in waterproofing and building protection.

By making this considerable investment in new state of the art facilities now, Icopal will be well positioned in the UK for the eventual economic upturn, emphasised by the company’s innovative approach to current and future market conditions.

Neil Harrison, Technical Director of Icopal explains, “Manufacturing has taken place at Icopal’s Manchester facility for the last 120 years. This significant period of time is testament to the dedicated approach the company has to supplying its local markets.

“Our strength within Icopal is the ability to harness the technology and innovation available globally from within the whole of the group and provide it at a local level. We strive to supply the UK market with the most innovative roofing products manufactured in the UK,” explains Neil, “It is not only about supporting British industry, an industry we have had a strong presence in for over 150 years, it is also about ensuring our technology is as energy and carbon efficient as possible.

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“We are undergoing a major programme of investment which will see us have some of Europe's most advanced production methods embedded within our Manchester production site. This will allow us to further increase our product quality and manufacturing efficiency, as well as introduce innovative new product features and benefits to our customers. We also want to retain our strong manufacturing presence in the UK.  This not only supports the local economy, but is also energy efficient and will reduce our carbon footprint.”

While many manufacturers have chosen to consolidate their assets by closing plant facilities and taking production overseas, Icopal has its focus firmly set in the UK. Fundamentally the benefit for customers is the reduced transportation cost and embodied carbon in products. 

This investment is underpinned by a very strong ethos in customer service that sees a sales team focussed on the individual needs of the market sectors it serves. With this in mind, Icopal has undertaken a major restructuring of its sales operation and customer service team “The aim here is to work more effectively with customers,” explains Neil Harrison, “Rather than concentrating on selling a particular product range, an holistic approach to an architectural challenge, installation requirement or customer demand will ensure that the right blend of products is specified each time.”

With customer service at the heart of its investment programme, Icopal is confident that it will be in a positive position from which to continue serving the needs of the UK market.

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