The first part of the factory will open later this year, with a single flexible production line complementing the firm’s R&D Technology Centre in Napton.
Around £65m will be invested by 2021 in the development of this and a further site, with funding currently being sought for a second phase of expansion. The project is backed by Shield Group Engineering, one of the largest manufacturers in the UK with contracts to supply components to Caterpillar, Cummins, Aston Martin, Jaguar Land Rover and JCB.
“This is a vote of confidence in Britain’s ability to manufacture at volume and high specification at globally competitive prices, said Steve Lindsey, CEO and founder at Lontra. “This is a new chapter for our business and we are delighted to be spearheading a new wave of precision manufacturing in the UK, and are committed to the Midlands where we believe that some of the world’s very best engineering minds can be found.”
Today’s announcement marks Lontra’s first foray into manufacturing directly in the UK. The company currently licenses its Blade Compressor design to pump manufacturer Sulzer. The manufacture of compressors in Southern Ireland will continue under Sulzer’s license, with Lontra’s new facility tackling fresh markets and applications.
Greg Clark MP, secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy said: “Britain has a proud history of manufacturing and through our Industrial Strategy the government has outlined a vision that will build on our strengths in this industry and help shape an environment that enables businesses and manufacturers to thrive.
“Significant investments by companies, like Lontra, into the UK’s advanced manufacturing base demonstrate the confidence businesses have in this approach and reflects the huge opportunities that exist both in the Midlands and the UK.”
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