Business growth and retention is a key focus for the London Economic Development Corporation. Working with existing companies to foster growth is one way we enhance our economic prosperity. In 2011 the LEDC facilitated over 30 expansions. the Director of Business Growth and Retention works with local companies with growth on their mind. “No matter how the local, national, or global economy is, if a company is committed to continuous improvement and or catered to a niche market or fulfilling an unmet need in the marketplace, these companies will be likely to succeed”, says Steve Glickman, Director of Business Growth and Retention at The London Economic Development Corporation.
Below we share stories from four of the many manufacturing companies in London who have expanded in 2011.
Exhaust Direct, a manufacturer and distributor of automotive exhausts, has expanded their Scanlan Street facility by 8,500 square feet. This development was triggered by a 400% increase in production over the past three years. “We had implemented lean manufacturing to it’s fullest and saw the stress it was putting on our employees. This expansion will have a dramatic impact on our daily operations, allowing our workers to maintain efficiency without jeopardizing their health and safety”, says Pat Bruder, President of Exhaust Direct.
This expansion will allow Exhaust Direct to begin capturing larger clientele and open opportunities to markets in the United States. Exhaust Direct’s achievements are not going unnoticed. In 2011 they were nominated for Business of the Year by the London Chamber of Commerce for the fourth year.
Hudson Boat Works, a manufacturer of Olympic class rowing shells, has consolidated their two London facilities while adding a 14,000 square foot addition. This expansion is expected to grow their workforce from 50 to 70 employees, with an official move planned for May 2012.
"These are very exciting times at Hudson Boat Works. Our success in global markets has pushed us to a tipping point, allowing us to modernize and expand our operations. We are looking forward to growing our workforce and competing at the top end of our industry," says Glen Burston, Operations Manager of Hudson Boat Works.
Givens Engineering, a designer and manufacturer of industrial machinery, has recovered from the recession and returned to their full workforce of 23 employees, doubling their team from 2009. The organization is equally excited about their patent pending new product. “2012 is the year we introduce our own light crane, manufactured and designed right here in London, which might lead to our biggest year for sales yet”, says Ray Givens, President of Givens Engineering.
As their new product requires additional floor space, Givens Engineering has moved to a larger facility, with 7,000 additional square feet. By April 1st, they will expand further and fill the entire 35,000 square foot space.
Starlim North America, a leading manufacturer of silicone products, has expanded their product offering by adding new medical lines to their London facility. In April 2011, Starlim also acquired Poly-Nova Technologies, a rubber-processing manufacturer, and added 100 employees to their team.
"We are excited about the opportunities in the healthcare market as we look forward to the next few years. Adding high volume, high quality medical parts like the needless value, opens up further opportunities in the healthcare market that continue to help us grow,” says Vijai Lakshmikanthan, Vice-President of Starlim North America.
For more information, please contact:
Steve Glickman
Director, Business Growth and Retention
London Economic Development Corporation
519 661 4524
sglickman@ledc.com
