Newly formed rubber company gets £300k investment boost

A newly formed company created following the recent merger of two industrial rubber polymer manufacturers has been given a £300k investment boost.

Hughes Armstrong Industries, formed new company, Dexine Leyland Rubber Technology Ltd (DLRT), in late June 2016 following the acquisition of Leyland Rubber Components Ltd.

Hughes Armstrong already owned Dexine Rubber Technologies Ltd and decided to merge the two companies to create a “stronger business with an enhanced product range.”

An initial investment of £300k is being made in what was the LRC facility to improve the building, purchase new and refurbish existing equipment, and relocate the Dexine operation from its current site in Rochdale, with further investment currently under review.

The decision to relocate the Dexine operation was reportedly taken in the context of limitations on its operation due to complaints from local residents and a lack of space for future development. In contrast the LRC facility offers scope for future expansion and is situated in a large business park.

“The synergies that already existed between LRC and Dexine have provided the platform for this investment,” explained Stephen Lord, Chief Executive of Hughes Armstrong Industries Ltd.

“On completion of the work complementary products will be manufactured at a single site providing us with economies of scale and room to fulfil our future growth plans.”

These products include Leyland Rubber Components Ltd’s expertise in the fabrication of fire resistant and low smoke, low toxic polymer products to complement Dexine’s wide range of bespoke compounds and products.

Discussions are ongoing with the Dexine workforce working towards relocating the majority of the staff and employees to Leyland.

The work at LRC will commence in August with a completion date scheduled in November 2016.