New Factory

One of the UK’s leading home improvement groups is set to create a new production facility for aluminium products in Doncaster. Conservatory Outlet Group, which comprises CO Manufacturing and CO Home Improvements, made the announcement at its annual Gala Dinner in Malaga, Spain. The largest event in its 20-year history attracted nearly 100 guests from the ‘network’, who heard how the 15,000 ft² factory will undergo transformation into a purpose-built facility. A significant investment will include the installation of dedicated CNC machines, cutting centres and crimpers. 

More information www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk 

Allow Wire Receives £150,000 Nuclear Contract Boost

A fast-growing Black Country manufacturer is reaping its commitment to quality by increasing the company’s existing work in the nuclear sector by 15%. Alloy Wire International made the announcement during the official presentation of its ISO 19443 accreditation by certification specialist LRQA at the firm’s factory in Brierley Hill earlier this month. AWI has already used the certification to reinforce its presence in the nuclear market, securing up to £150,000 of additional sales from customers supplying parts for nuclear reactors, mini reactors and the complex world of decommissioning. 

More information www.alloywire.com  

Nominations Open For Enginuity Skills Awards 2027

Nominations are now open for the Enginuity Skills Awards 2027 in partnership with Babcock – regarded widely as the most prestigious awards in engineering and manufacturing. Now in its 13th year, the Enginuity Skills Awards recognise individuals and organisations that are championing skills excellence and driving innovation. Entries will remain open until midnight on 20 December 2026. Shortlisted finalists will be invited to a gala event at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London on 30 June 2027, where category winners will be awarded £1000, with three additional finalists awarded £500 each. 

More information www.enginuity.org/skills-awards-2027 

BLM Officially Opens Towcester Headquarters

BLM Group has officially inaugurated its new headquarters in Towcester, Northamptonshire,  

reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the company’s presence in the UK and providing customers with an even higher level of support. The three-day event earlier this month welcomed customers, partners and industry professionals, offering them the opportunity to tour the new facility and experience BLM Group technologies first-hand. 

Visitors were able to discover laser-tube systems, tube benders, 3D cells and laser systems for sheet metal processing. The new premises also feature dedicated training areas, providing customers and partners with opportunities  to enhance their technical expertise.  

The open house marked a further milestone in BLM Group’s development in the UK, where the company has been operating since 1997. 

More information www.blmgroup.com 

Colchester And FANUC Begin Strategic UK Partnership

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions has entered into a strategic partnership with FANUC UK, further strengthening the range of advanced manufacturing technologies available to customers. As part of the agreement, Colchester Machine Tool Solutions is now an authorised distributor for the FANUC ROBODRILL range of high-performance machining centres.  

Jonathan Wright, managing director at Colchester Machine Tool Solutions, says: “This partnership brings together two organisations with a shared commitment to engineering excellence. The addition of FANUC ROBODRILL allows us to offer our customers a premium machining solution that’s recognised worldwide for quality, performance and reliability.” 

More information www.colchester.co.uk