The Stewart Company's Factory Tour

On 28th June 2017 the BPF Moulders and Specialist Processors Group held its second factory tour and networking event in The Stewart Company facility in Banbury.

The event gave attendees a unique opportunity to learn about the Stewart Plastics’ approach, how the business started, and how it is changing its marketing strategy.

The Stewart Company is a leading UK manufacturer of premium flowerpots, planters, propagators, catering food storage and custom technical moulding. Based in Banbury, the company, which was established in 1945, is entering its next exciting chapter. During his presentation Andy Burns, Managing Director of The Stewart Company, explained that the Stewart strategy is shifting towards being a market orientated company, a change in approach that represents a significant step forward, in contrast to previously being a more product-orientated supplier that concentrated on driving loyalty within its trade customer base. More information on The Stewart Company can be found in the presentation downloadable here.

During his talk, Andy, was very pleased to distribute copies of the 2016 Parliament Review, Manufacturing edition that featured The Stewart Company in recognition of its achievements in terms of UK manufacturing investment and organisational transformation. Andy also encouraged the attendees to consider the value of the parliamentary review for promoting their businesses. If you would like to learn more about it, please follow the link: https://theparliamentaryreview.co.uk/index.html

In addition, Mike Wilson of ABB Robotics delivered a comprehensive presentation on the Benefits of Robotic Automation. The presentation is available to download here.

David de Leyser, HSE Advisor of Owen Mumford, said:  “Refreshing to see a company whose manufacturing processes are market led rather than manufacturing led, responding to seasonal demands in such an effective way using both rotational and injection moulding processes. Excellent time spent networking with other BPF members quite aside from personal CPD”.

Joe Foster, technical sales at Big Bear Plastic Products said:  “I found the visit very worthwhile, Stewart are making strides both commercially and with regard to investment. Their total sales ownership, operating and investing in POS within their customers premises, along with their massive investment in new machinery shows they are looking to cover the full range of production from beginning to end. It was very worthwhile seeing in the flesh.”

The BPF is delighted with the feedback from the event and is looking forward to inviting its members to the October factory tour that will be held on 11th October at Pentagon Plastics in Horsham and it will feature presentations on the topic of the skills gap and what can be done to fill it.

For more information on the BPF factory Tour and the BPF Moulders and Specialist Processors Group, contact Dr Sara Cammarano at [email protected]