Member Article

Ashington's BSS expands into new premises

Ashington-based BSS LED Ltd is set to expand its manufacturing operations, following help from Arch, the Northumberland Development Company.

BSS manufactures commercial and industrial LED lighting systems which use up to 65% less energy than regular lighting and feature reduced heat output and zero lamp maintenance.

Arch has helped Steve Bell, BSS LED managing director, to accelerate the expansion by locating and arranging the lease on a new 4,000 square feet industrial unit at Grasmere Way in Blyth.

Steve revealed: “We are the only company in the North East designing and manufacturing commercial and industrial lighting and one of three in the UK.

“The LED lighting industry is very fast paced, driven by the need to develop and deliver high-quality products. Demand for cutting-edge, energy saving, LED lighting systems is increasing exponentially as businesses continually seek to reduce their energy costs.

“In order to meet our growing order book I had to invest quickly in another site to house thousands of pounds worth of new plant technology including a CNC press break, CNC punch press and a powder coating line.

“Arch has an extensive commercial property portfolio and offer competitive terms and rents. They understood the needs of the business and within one week we had secured the lease on the Ashington unit and got to work kitting it out. I can’t recommend them highly enough.”

BSS LED Ltd started trading six years ago when MD Steve Bell saw an opportunity in the market to compete against manufacturers in China along with a personal desire to bring highly skilled manufacturing jobs back to the UK.

He currently employs 17 full-time staff including three technical apprentices with plans to create a further 35 jobs in 2016. To date he has invested close to £2m in developing the business.

Arch Group chairman and deputy leader of Northumberland County Council, councillor Dave Ledger, said: “Northumberland has a long manufacturing tradition which is maintained by a diverse and ambitious group of outstanding businesses like BSS LED Ltd.

“A major part of our mission to enhance the economic growth of Northumberland is to maximise the opportunities available for these companies. A key element of this is our growing property portfolio of speculative business space and the expertise within Arch to readily assist businesses like BSS to grow and expand their operations in the county.”

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