Joinery Company demonstrates UK Manufacturing cuts cost and reduces Carbon Output

9/29/2011 5:53 AM EST

A Cambridgeshire based Joinery Company, Strata Panels UK, has secured a second order with Tigi Hair Care confirming that UK manufacturing cuts cost and reduces carbon output.
Tigi Hair Care, now owned by the Unilever group, have ordered over 2000 product display units from Strata Panels UK.
The display units were originally manufactured in the US and were ‘value engineered’ by Strata Panels to reduce overall weight. Display shelves were changed from acrylic to metal making the units easier to handle by salon staff.
Strata Panels UK MD Carl Jenkin stated; ‘We were originally tasked with manufacturing the units at the same cost as the US. Transport costs were high; it quickly became clear that lighter units and reduced freight costs had a significant impact on the delivered price.’
‘We are starting to see clients spreading manufacturing quantities; moving away from Chinese production because of high transport costs, long lead times and inventory levels. One of the advantages of smaller UK manufacturers is that we can take on lower volume orders and still remain competitive.’
The news comes at a time when the UK has set the most ambitious target of any developing country in pledging to halve carbon emissions by 2025. With more than a quarter of the UK’s carbon emissions coming from industry it is vital that the carbon output of finished products is reduced.
Tony Herbert, Purchasing Manager for Tigi Hair Care stated; ‘To reduce the transportation costs for our Catwalk display stand we looked at having the unit fabricated in the UK, Strata Panels UK, a Cambridgeshire based point of sale manufacturer, were not only able to supply the stand at a reduced cost they were also able to commence deliveries within 5 weeks of us placing our order. Strata re-engineered the stand, making it easier to assemble and nearly 7kgs lighter, whilst keeping the appearance the same as the American version. We have ordered over 2000 stands to date and the reduced weight has saved us onward shipping costs but has also meant less damage. Strata offer a first rate service and we will have no hesitation using them for similar projects in the future’.
Strata Panels UK manufacture bespoke retail displays to contract furniture. With over 30 years experience in the woodwork trade a fast and professional service is guaranteed. From concept and design through to construction and installation. See www.stratapanels.co.uk or telephone 01487 825040 for further information on products and services.