Yorkshire steel products firm sees 40% profits increase ahead of "major" investments

A Yorkshire steel products manufacturer has announced that it has seen a nearly 40 per cent increase in profits in the past year.

Siddall and Hilton Products, based in Brighouse, reported that its pre-tax profits have risen from £1.07m in 2019 to £1.49m this year - its first year since a management buyout in August 2019.

The company has said that it is now planning “major” investments in the coming year, moving its business into the next phase of development.

Ian Thurley, chief executive, commented: “Following the MBO in summer 2019, we have embarked on a period of review and improvement, including restructuring our back office operation which has enabled the business to run more efficiently and resulted in better profit margins.

“While the disruption of the COVID-19 outbreak back in March meant that we were closed for four weeks, overall, the pandemic has not had a major impact on us.

“With our Covid safety measures in place, we enjoyed a busy summer and are able to continue to operate, even during the current lockdown.

“With much of the economy struggling, the strength of the UK’s manufacturing sector is evident with it showing resilience after a year of turmoil.

“Thanks to the skill and commitment of our team at Siddall and Hilton Products, we had the strongest July in over a decade and already we have a full order book into next year.

“Encouragingly, we are also seeing major international projects come to market and recently secured a significant contract in France.

“Despite having lost turnover during the initial lockdown and taking on the additional costs to become Covid secure and protect the team, we are fortunate that the business is in a healthy position.

“Our staff have adopted a very positive and supportive attitude and it is largely due to their hard work and commitment that we are now planning some major investments next year, including expanding the workforce.

“2021 will see the business move into the next stage of its development, building on the brand’s international reputation for quality and service and helping us to realise our vision to become a world class mesh manufacturer.”