Member Article

Sunderland window manufacturer creates jobs

Sunderland-based NE&C Windows and Doors have created five jobs following a relocation into larger factory premises.

The family-run business has expanded into a 16,000 sq ft unit at Glover Industrial Estate in Washington after growing from turnover from £250k to over £1.3 million.

Co-founder Heather Ramshaw, also the company’s financial director, said: “That figure will continue to grow. We’re not looking at a cap on how many people we employ now that we have a factory to grow in the future.

“In the last 18 months, we have created a glass production unit and introduced new designs. We are trying to build our portfolio with it all under one roof. We started with UPVC frames, then expanded into aluminium and now the production of bi-fold doors. We are also looking at conservatory roofs in the future.

“We pride ourselves on the quality of our design, manufacture and service which means we produce everything in-house and can offer a more competitive price to our customers.”

The firm are part of Sunderland City Council’s Buy Sunderland First scheme - a tendering programme to make sure local authority work benefits the Sunderland economy.

NE&C have won a tender with the council to maintain, repair and renew aluminium windows and doors. The firm have also enlisted Council support in its relocation.

Heather added: “Sunderland City Council was fantastic. We had worked with the business investment team on previous projects. We have a great relationship: they are easy to get on with and very helpful.

“I have in the past worked in other areas and with other councils but Sunderland is the easiest to deal with.”

Councillor Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “We are delighted to have helped NE&C’s move into a new factory and share the company’s confidence that it will continue to grow, creating more jobs and wealth for Sunderland and the region’s economy.

“Sunderland is an excellent location for both new and existing manufacturing businesses seeking to expand. The City Council can offer advice and support and I’d urge growing businesses to get in touch with us to see what help is available.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .