Berck, which manufactures quality metal pressings and metal/plastic sub-assemblies, can already boast an enviable client base including UK automotive giant, Jaguar Land Rover, and is now aiming for even more business following the award success.
Darren Yates, managing director, says, “70% of our business is in the global automotive sector and it made sense for us to strengthen our quality process.”
He added, “Gaining accreditation took 18 months and was awarded at the end of July. Berck had achieved the aerospace equivalent three years earlier so was already well placed to complete the automotive benchmark for quality.
“Whilst the standard is useful from a marketing perspective, the main focus in achieving this standard was to improve the business and processes.”
The process of getting this accreditation was very time consuming for Berck, especially for the quality department, however the benefits are already noticeable. Berck has seen a positive boost in their operations since introducing the new standard and the business hope that the quality mark will bring in new opportunities. The main changes include moving the machinery around in order to achieve better flow of components, further improvement in documentation and procedures, empowering people on the shopfloor, and making them more responsible for what they are making.
Quality manager Steve Bettridge, who was working on the project full time, adds: “It’s about getting people more involved with what they produce and show them how critical they are to the customer. “This was a company wide effort and we are very proud of what we have achieved as a team.”
Following a profitable year, Berck was able to reinvest a further £230,000 this year in two pieces of machinery, a Schlatter welder and an ultrasonic degreasing machine. The welding technology has helped to add a brand new in-line welding process to the company’s operations.
The business currently has a turnover of £6 million and employs 70 people. Strengthened by its new automotive credentials and investment in equipment, Berck now aims to add at least £500,000 to that figure.
