Devon Metalworking Service Refocuses For Growth

11th Jun 2009

Recent figures from an EEF survey, show that manufacturers feel they are close to the bottom of the downturn cycle and although trading conditions remain tough, they expect growth to return in 2010.

This is definitely the case for Alderman Tooling, which is taking advantage of the government’s manufacturing trouble-shooters, the MAS, to help it implement a strategy and plan for growth in preparation for the challenging year ahead.

Keen to diversify and prepare the business for potential obstacles on the horizon, the full metalworking specialist recently took part in MAS South West’s Strategic Management Programme (SMP).
Founded in 1969, Alderman Tooling is one of the longest-established manufacturers in Devon. Its 60 staff provide a full metalworking service from concept, through prototyping, to manufacturing. “The industry is facing a number of challenges which are impacting on all manufacturers,” said Karen Friendship, managing director of Alderman Tooling. “The onset of the recession combined with the squeeze on raw material prices, at a time when clients are demanding lower costs and diversifying into new markets, has meant that we have had to re-think the way we work.

“We recently refreshed our management team and having done the SMP back in 2005 we felt that it would be an opportune time to get the MAS in to help us review and refine our strategy. We know our business inside out but wanted to drawn on strategic expertise to help us manage and maximise opportunities.
“We looked at the structure of the team, processes, strengths, weaknesses and facilitating our thoughts on where we wanted to go. We also looked at our suppliers, competitors, the threats and the opportunities available to us. The programme was intense, and it has set us up well for the future.”

Based at a 38,000 sq ft factory in Plymouth, Alderman’s has secured new contracts this year despite the recession, achieving a 15 per cent growth with a £4.5 million turnover.
Phil Halse, from the MAS-SW who worked on the SMP with Alderman Tooling said: “The SMP refresher came at the right time for Alderman Tooling, helping the business to refocus on what was important,” said Phil. “We worked alongside the company to facilitate new strategy and implement recommendations. Alderman Tooling is doing really well considering the current economic climate, holding on to their team and diversifying to suit client needs.”

The aim of the SMP is to leave the organisation with the confidence and ability to continue to apply the strategic review and planning tools in the future. This enables the business to continue to fine-tune or re-invent the strategy as time, the marketplace and circumstances dictate.

back