Automation specialist signs for 15-year contract at 75,000 sq ft Wakefield facility

Dewsbury industrial automation firm Sewtec has revealed it will relocate to a 75,000 sq ft facility in Wakefield as the business continues to implement its transformation strategy.

Sewtec has signed a 15-year agreement to lease an existing building in Silkwood Park near junction 40 of M1, more than double the size of its current premises in Dewsbury.

A multi-million-pound investment could see Sewtec create a design and manufacturing facility.

Expected to be operational by March 2020, all 130 employees will relocate and the business estimates that more than 70 new jobs will be created at the site in the next three years.

This July, Sewtec announced its turnover had more than doubled to a record £28m with EBITDA of £9m, in the year to June 30 2019. The company is now aiming to deliver a turnover of £50m by 2023.

Sewtec’s growth follows an MBO in August 2017, which was backed by Leeds-headquartered private equity firm Endless.

Sewtec’s managing director, Mark Cook, said: “This is an excellent, modern facility which will transform how Sewtec operates and help us further realise our potential.

“Client demand for our bespoke automation machinery continues to grow at pace and in many global markets. The investment will provide us with space to meet this demand and increase our manufacturing capability.

“It will also enable us to attract and retain more highly skilled engineers, as well as benefiting the local community through apprenticeships, supplier networks and our school outreach programme.

“This is an exciting time for Sewtec and we will enter 2020 with the momentum required to achieve our 2023 growth target.”

The new facility will include modern R&D and office spaces, with breakout areas to further enhance innovation and problem-solving.

Plans also include new production and quality control offices plus a significant increase in the assembly area, machine shop, fabrication bays and stores.

FLJ is retained to project manage the improvements supported by Enjoy Design architects and Triangle Consulting Engineers, which are located in Leeds and Tadcaster respectively.