Conservatory manufacturer Collins Windows is set for significant expansion after being awarded a Selective Finance for Investment (SFI) grant by One NorthEast.
from left to right: Michael Cantwell and Colin McDermott
Collins Windows was established in Sunderland in 1993 with a staff of one, Colin McDermott, the business’ proprietor. After 12 years of operating as a small scale manufacturer of windows and conservatories, the business is expanding into large scale automated conservatory manufacturing.
Colin McDermott commented: “As the larger house-builders and retail outlets take an increasing hold on the conservatory construction market, I identified that a re-alignment of the business’ operations was required. The investment will allow us to enter into contracts to supply these businesses with regular repeat orders of high-quality conservatories.”
Michael Cantwell, Corporate Finance Executive at Gateshead based accountancy practice Richardson Hall Kennedy, who helped Collins Windows secure the SFI grant, said: “This investment will allow the business to demonstrate its abilities on a larger scale and form the basis for further expansion and a successful future.”
The business relocated to premises at Parsons Industrial Estate, Washington, in October this year entering an eight year lease, from its previous premises within Houghton le Spring. The business will invest in an automated production line with the capacity to manufacture 50 conservatories per month. Collins Windows expects to create 20 new jobs over the next three years.
Paul Buie of Tyne and Wear Development Company, who helped Collins Windows identify its new premises, is confident that the re-focussing of operations will allow the business to flourish. “The business has years of experience and can build upon its strong reputation to secure and fulfil contracts with larger customers,” he said.
David Allison, One NorthEast Director of Business and Industry said: “The success of Collin’s Windows’ expansion is dependent on moving to larger premises and investing in plant and machinery and I am delighted that One NorthEast has been able to help the business accomplish this with a grant. Hopefully the investment will allow the business to fulfil its considerable potential.”
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RHK are registered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales to carry out company audit work. RHK Corporate Finance LLP is registered in England and Wales as a Limited Liaibility Partnership (Registered No. OC308294)
