Ladbrook in the News...

Metal Pressing Firm Remains Upbeat and Optimistic

Ladbrook expands its capabilities in order to help beat recession.

Norfolk based Ladbrook Engineering is celebrating a recent investment in two new pieces of manufacturing equipment and a healthy order book for 2010. The first major investment has been the acquisition of a 100-ton Open Fronted Press with a Pneumatic Die Cushion that enables Ladbrook to press intricate metal shapes such as deep drawn boxes and covers where the process of blanking, piercing and forming can be achieved in one strike of the press; making it very competitive and hard to beat. The second major investment has been the acquisition of a computer-controlled punch press, capable of fast and accurate pre-programmed repetitive work in low and high volumes.

"Both machines have been key to winning new contracts in new markets and organically growing in others," said Mike Blowers, Managing Director of Ladbrook.

" The new 100-ton press is currently pressing deep drawn metal parts for pressurised vessels and the punch press is busy making enclosures for electronic traffic signs. It may have been a brave decision to make such major investments with so much uncertainty around, but we have a great team of engineers and production staff here at Ladbrook. With the right people and the right technology, I think we are in very good shape for the future."

Ladbrook is now close to being a 75-year-old company and still remains a close-knit family affair with the traditional values of service and quality. Ladbrook are also proud that they have not had to consider any redundancies and that staff turnover is extremely low.

Mike Blowers (above right)

"From board level right down to the workshop, Ladbrook still retains its passion for engineering," said Mike Blowers. "Ladbrook has a culture of wanting to do things right and wanting to succeed, working alongside their partners to achieve the very best. Even now, after almost 75 years, we are providing components for many brands that are recognised worldwide for their quality and performance. This is what we thrive on. It's always good to know that we are making a difference."

Three years ago, Ladbrook made the decision to increase their expertise and capabilities in 'metal spinning' by adding a PNC controlled state of the art metal spinner to their range of services. Again, this meant considerable investment in equipment, training and marketing. This investment has resulted in a number of new customers and Ladbrook finding new markets such as the medical sector, road sign manufacture, pressure vessels and decorating equipment.

"I think we have done well," said Mike. "We have grown organically through a recession and we are in great shape to go forward. I think we've achieved this because we have never been ones to rest on our laurels. All of us have been working flat out, chasing new business, exploring new technologies and making sure that we exceed expectations on every project".

Ladbrook’s history dates back to the production of “metal L-Plates” and also the production of soldier’s mess cans during the war.

For more information regarding Ladbrook's press metal and metal spinning services, contact Paul Goodman on 01692 402156

back to main news page