The Bloxwich-based firm, which has been producing metal components for more than 70 years, has already re-shored production of almost a quarter of a million fastening components and in the process has, in some cases, reduced costs by up to 50%.
An SME team from the MTC's Manufacturing Support Services operation worked with Albert Jagger to reconfigure its factory. The team of 11 MTC engineers produced a new factory layout, introduced new technology, including CNC machines and automation, and re-trained staff using virtual and augmented reality.
As a result, the firm was able to produce fastening components that had previously been imported from China for between 20 and 50% of the cost. In addition, Albert Jagger has slashed stockholding costs by 50% and created space in the factory for future growth.
Magnus McFarlane, lead advisor with the MTC's transformation team, said: "The management team at Albert Jagger has delivered an amazing transformation - visually, culturally and technologically. Their strategy of re-shoring production is one that a number of UK businesses may be considering, and at Albert Jagger they have created an agile facility and a resilient supply chain."
Albert Jagger's chief executive, Garth Cooper, added: "Our work with the MTC has been truly transformational. We've invested in our factory and in new technologies, we have taken on staff and improved the skills of our existing employees. We are already seeing the benefits of our strategy to re-shore and recently secured 200,000 units of product originally outsourced to China."
Albert Jagger supplies products to a range of automotive companies, including commercial vehicle manufacturers, agriculture, construction, rail, medical, aerospace and emergency services.
The MTC Manufacturing Support Services team has worked with more than 500 SMEs, and at any one time has more than 150 live projects.
