Subcontracting processes return to UK

One client has closed their factory in the Czech Republic and has brought their finishing machines back to the UK stating it is no longer a better cost option. Another is in the process of repatriating their finishing processes from South Africa. China is also no longer seen as the best option; Labour costs may be low but finishing quality reflects this. Customers are also demanding manufacturers deliver quality-finished components virtually by return. When finishing is done thousands of miles away, finished components are not held in stock. It's the UK manufacturers who finish their components in the UK that have this competitive advantage. A recent survey by EEF (the engineering and manufacturing employers' organisation) and accountants BDO Stoy Hayward reported that 14 per cent of UK manufacturers have repatriated production in the past two years. "At the end of the day UK manufacturers that bring their finishing back to the UK will get a quality finish and great service. Add this to the beneficial effect of sterling being weak, the importance placed by the end-user of environmental impact and it's a great business case not to be shipping parts thousands of miles across the globe." PDJ Vibro is a family run company set up in 1983 by John Hurley. Paul Hurley runs the operational side of the business and David Hurley is managing director. Between them, they have over 80 years of experience in the vibratory finishing industry.