Anochrome has invested more than £2 million in its site in Walsall, including building a new plant and modernising a large bay.
The company spent £1.3 million on a new plant, expected to boost production capacity by at least 50%. Steve Norman, Group UK Divisional Director at Anochrome Group, said the new plant will be the most advanced of its kind in the UK, utilising Best Available Techniques (BAT) to reduce environmental impact.
“It will help us service all our OEMs’ technical specifications while minimising our environmental footprint,” he said.
In addition to being more efficient, the machinery will enable Anochrome to reduce the chemicals used in its processes, including zinc plating, zinc phosphate plating, zinc nickel plating, Cathodic E-coating, and powder coating.
The modernised bay will also reduce energy costs and improve working conditions for employees.
“The revamped bay was where we kept all our scrap and redundant equipment. That area has been completely overhauled and is now an energy-friendly, modern unit fit for 2025,” he added.
All asbestos was removed from the old bay and replaced with the latest energy-rated cladding. New doors and lights have been installed, and the entire unit has been re-wired.
The bay’s refurbishment is largely complete, while the new plant is scheduled to arrive in February and will be commissioned throughout March. Once fully operational in April, the current plant will be decommissioned.
“This investment will bring significant benefits to both our customers and our people. It’s an important moment for the business and demonstrates our commitment to continued growth while being environmentally responsible,” Norman said.
Last year, Anochrome appointed Jamie Westley as Group Process Improvement & Technical Sales Manager to help drive these initiatives.