LEP investment boosts global trade opportunities f...

Sealant and adhesive manufacturer Polyseam has hailed the positive effect the launch of its new factory has had on the business.

The £2.3m facility includes research and development, engineering, planning and storehouse space as well as three modern manufacturing units containing the latest technology.

The investment in the 82,000 sq ft manufacturing site, which has seen Polyseam move from a smaller site in Huddersfield to the new factory in the West Yorkshire town, has included £230,000 from the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership’s grant programme towards new equipment.

Established in 1993, Polyseam specialises in the development of sealants, adhesives and fillers for a host of applications. It also produces fire protection products for buildings.

This latest investment marks the next stage in the company’s ambition for further growth. It has enabled Polyseam, which is owned by Protecta Group AS, to continue its international expansion programme. The company exports to more than 40 countries.

The business has grown to boast international offices in Norway, Sweden, Poland as well as a network of international distributors.

Kjetil Bogstad, Chief Executive of Polyseam, said the new facility was helping to boost the company’s export business, which now accounted for 80 per cent of its sales, because it had enabled better process efficiencies and research and development opportunities.

“Over our quarter of a century as a manufacturer, Polyseam has developed and maintained a market leading position, offering only the best quality in our brands.

“We continue to work smart in order to remain at the forefront of science and technology. As we adapt to the ever changing environmental, industrial and economic headwinds and pressures, we are continually developing innovative products and systems that equip our extensive customer base with the right tools to do the job effectively and efficiently.

“A big growth area for us is the export market with the quality of our products winning us customers in countries including Australia, New Zealand, India, Thailand and Vietnam.”

Kjetil said that with turnover of £15m and employing around 50 staff, Polyseam was focused on further growth with recruitment of new employees in areas including research and development in the pipeline.

He added: “Polyseam is extremely grateful to the LEP for the financial support the company has received to help fulfil this project and enable us to house such a state of the art factory facility.

“The LEP has also provided valuable advice through its Trade and Investment, and Skills Services teams, including skills planning, diagnostic and relevant courses.

The LEP, working in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority has received funding through Leeds City Region Growth Deal – a £1bn package of Government investment to accelerate growth and create jobs across Leeds City Region.

Andrew Wright, Chair of the LEP Business, Innovation and Growth (BIG) Panel, said: “Polyseam is a business which has not only made a name for itself on the global stage but is also investing in its long-term future here in Yorkshire. 

“Its new manufacturing facility is a real jewel in the crown for the City Region and is helping to create jobs, improve skills and productivity levels.”

Cllr Shabir Pandor, Leader of Kirklees Council said:  “It’s very positive to hear of Polyseam’s continued success, both domestically and overseas, since the opening of its new factory. It’s always pleasing to support exciting businesses such as Polyseam and help the region’s manufacturing sector and wider economy to prosper.”

To find out more contact the LEP Business Growth Service on 0113 348 1818 or email businessgrowth@the-lep.com