TWP Manufacturing Ltd

UK Manufacturing sector spurred by on by Threeway Pressings

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 09/02/2012

The growing success of Threeway Pressings this year has capped an excellent year for Midlands manufacturing as this Tipton firm has continued to excel in new markets, grow its business and achieve all this, manufacturing here in the U.K Threeway Pressings is involved in the manufacture of precision presswork components in ferrous and non-ferrous metals for the automotive, construction and white goods sectors.

A new 200 tonne Rhodes press has doubled production capacity to 1.8 million parts a year. Modern CNC tube manipulation equipment has been purchased and the company’s welding and robotic welding facilities have been increased by a third. In addition, a new purpose-built storage and distribution facility means stock can be held for customers on a Kanban basis and dispatched and delivered within 48 hours.

Threeway’s diversification strategy has seen it expand its facilities to include section rolling, which has enabled work to be repatriated from China. Customer lead times will be reduced and Threeway will add yet another growth area to its business. Its injection moulding plant has also received investment in tooling and machinery to retrieve operations that were previously outsourced. This is facilitating better control of production and stock holding and has already doubled productivity.

The Tipton-based firm’s diversification is giving customers access to a substantial variety of integrated manufacturing solutions under one roof, and is a key factor in the steady rise of Threeway’s turnover and profitability.

Branching out into garden and leisure products is proving to be a highly successful venture. Bullbarrow Products, a division of Threeway, is the market leader in the manufacture and supply of wheelbarrows for the gardening, hardware and building industries. Its portfolio of 57 models – from lightweight, manoeuvrable models, to sturdy, heavy-duty barrows – is unmatched by any of its competitors in the marketplace.

Bullbarrow also produces a wide range of garden and leisure accessories including trolleys, flexitubs, children’s sledges and snow shovels. It launched its newest product – the Bullcart, a revolutionary two-wheeled cart that’s easy to push or pull thanks to its low centre of gravity – at Glee 2011, the UK’s top trade show for the garden industry and held annually at the NEC Birmingham.

“We had a tremendous response when we exhibited at Glee,” director Phil Stanley told Business Report. “Our stand looked very impressive with all our Bullbarrow products in various colours on display and attracted a lot of interest from buyers. Around the same time as the show we launched our new website – www. bullbarrow.co.uk – and this is also helping us to raise our profile among the 2,000 garden centres and builders’ merchants in the UK.”

Spyra-Base, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Threeway, is the UK’s leading manufacturer of ground anchors. With their spiral design, these can be rotated into the ground by hand and used for a variety of garden, DIY and security applications, anything in fact from securing a parasol or tent to a caravan or boat. Unlike rival products, Spyra-Base anchors create minimum ground disturbance when being inserted or removed, meaning they are good for the environment and reusable.

Threeway has this year invested a “six-figure sum” to bring Spyra-Base’s

manufacturing operations to its Midlands base. This has involved investment in new machinery, tooling, and sales and administration resources. The relocation of the business, says Threeway, will also create future job opportunities in the region.

Director Richard Perry commented: “We decided to manufacture all our Spyra-Base products in the UK because we couldn’t find suitable suppliers elsewhere, including China. We have designed and developed our own machinery that will enable us to make the components to the required quality standard enjoyed by all our presswork and injection moulding customers. .

“This will also give us greater capacity and flexibility to increase production in response to customer demand. What’s more, our prices will remain competitive when compared to foreign imports.”

Exhibiting our success

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 04/07/2016

After a busy winter period, we at the Threeway Group have begun our exhibition season with gusto.

In March our gardening products were shown at the ever popular Edible Garden show at Stoneleigh in Kenilworth where our Wheelbarrows, Garden Scoots and Garden Tools attracted a lot of attention for their colours, versatility and quality.

Bullbarrow donated a number of barrows for a Garden in a Barrow competition which was launched in hopes to encourage young people to understand and appreciate the enjoyment of gardening. This is particularly relevant for city dwellers where open spaces are limited.

We have carried this theme through the year with donations to the BBC Gardeners world exhibition and the Stratford Home and Garden Show.

In May our manufacturing diversity was shown at the Made in the Midlands Expo at the GTG Training & Conference Centre.

Frequented by many local suppliers and customers in the midlands manufacturing sector, it was a chance again to show the immense depth of skills we have over at Threeway Pressings and similarly at our associated businesses.

Bullbarrow also helped raise further funds for the Made in the midlands chosen charity by raffling off another Barrow of Booze won by H T Brigham.

We would like to take the opportunity to thank everybody who donated at the show. The amazing support entering our raffle helped to raise £455 towards Cancer Research.

The manufacturing events continue into June with the SUBCON exhibition at the NEC which runs from the 7th to the 9th June. SUBCON is a large manufacturing trade show where we can not only promote our companies skills but also network with other potential suppliers and customers and further cement our relationships with like-minded businesses in the midlands.

Threeway will be demonstrating its variety of manufacturing capabilities including Presswork, Injection Moulding, Fabrication and tube manipulation to name but a few.

In June Bullbarrow will be at the BBC Gardeners World Live at the NEC, a show which we have donated 40 wheelbarrows to in hopes of again encouraging young people to get involved.

The BBC Gardeners World Live attracts over 120 thousand, over 4 days, with the largest retail brands in the gardening sector exhibiting. Building on our success in recent years we have advanced our reputation in the industry and are now a significant supplier to major retailers.

Dropship capabilities have been a large proportion of our growth which has allowed us to react to the requirements of the internet phenomenon.

Because of this success we have secured our largest stand to date so we are able to display all our products from the 3 ranges Bullbarrow, Brilliant Garden Products and Spyrabase.

Threeways exhibiting year will be rounded off with a Made in the Midlands breakfast event at its premises in Tipton on 21 st July 2016.

The breakfast event will allow our many contacts in manufacturing and distribution to view and discuss the assortment of products we sell as well as the complex processes and procedures required to create finished products for selling globally.

We look forward to seeing you all there, you can register for the event here

Citizen Machinery Supports TWP with 20 Year Old Sliding Head Lathe

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 03/12/2020

Despite starting out more than 25 years ago, Dudley-based TWP Manufacturing opened its CNC machine shop as recently as the beginning of 2019 to produce most of the components needed for its proprietary products in-house.

They include photographic darkroom and studio equipment, gardening products including wheelbarrows, and security anchors. The firm also provides subcontract press working and injection moulding services to a wide range of industries, particularly the automotive sector.

Vertical machining centres and a single-spindle, fixed-head bar auto are to be found on the shop floor, but in May 2020 the company purchased its first sliding-head twin-spindle lathe, a 20-year-old Citizen Cincom M32 equipped with an Iemca Boss 432r barfeed. It was originally sold in 2000 by the Japanese manufacturer’s agent for the British and Irish markets, NC Engineering, which in 2008 became a wholly-owned subsidiary, Citizen Machinery UK.

Phil Stanley, a director of TWP Manufacturing says: “We were previously outsourcing the production of a lot of our turned parts, including to subcontractors in the Far East. However, it became apparent that the way we were expanding, it would be necessary to bring component manufacturing in-house to cope with the higher volumes as well as to have more control over production.”

Phil Stanley

To fulfil the predicted quantities, the company recognised that it needed a turning centre with more speed and capability than its fixed-head lathe without driven tools, as when using this machine there was frequently a requirement for additional operations.

Sometimes a component needed to be parted off and inverted in the chuck if it required machining on the reverse end. If milling and drilling were involved, they had to be accomplished by setting up the job on a machining centre. Furthermore, many components formerly required manual de-pipping, adding a lot of labour cost content to their production.

None of this is necessary on the Cincom. It is able to synchronously and automatically transfer a component from the main spindle to the counter spindle for back-end machining while front-end operations are carried out simultaneously on a new length of bar.

Prismatic features are added in the same cycle using live cutters and the tool carrier’s Y-axis. Components come off the lathe pip-free after parting off due to close control over the machine’s spindle speeds and feed rates. Production times have drastically reduced from, for example, 3.5 minutes down to a single one-minute cycle without any manual intervention, allowing parts to go straight to plating.

Mr Stanley adds: “The speed and surface finish we are achieving is just incredible and the fact that there is no operator intervention means that we are able to implement lights-out production, which we are looking to do later this year.”

In the first few of months of operation, the Cincom M32 was devoted to large volume production of one particular component but another four-part numbers have now been added. All are machined from one-inch hexagonal steel bar and annual production will exceed 200,000-off.

Pre-sales time studies and cutting trials carried out by Citizen Machinery UK showed that all five components could be produced within tolerance at the required speed. The calculations were carried out following a visit by managing director Edward James and regional sales engineer Warren Garratt to the Dudley factory, during which the company was advised on how best to proceed with its in-house turned parts production strategy.

Mr Stanley concludes: “Even though the machine was 20 years old and we bought it independently on the second-hand market, from the outset Citizen have been behind us.

“First they demonstrated the same type of machine in their showroom, which I would say was a light-bulb moment for us, following which they wrote the first program and carried out a cycle time calculation, repeating the same procedure for four further components.

“They supported us through machine installation and commissioning, helped with tooling, setting-up and maintenance, and trained us to operate the lathe and their Alkart CNC Wizard programming system.

“If their assistance had not been forthcoming, without a shadow of a doubt we would not have been able to progress, especially as some of our operators have never used a machine like the Cincom before.

“The support we have received all the way through these processes has been brilliant and has enabled us to take a massive step up the ladder in respect of in-house production of turn-milled components.”

(Source: PES Media)

The Story Behind Threeway Pressings Meeting the Prime Minister

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 25/07/2023

This week, TWP Manufacturing’s MD Phil Stanley had the honour of meeting with local MP Sean Bailey to discuss manufacturing, alongside an introduction with the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

This story began back on March 7th, when the Conservative MP for West Bromwich West, Shaun Bailey, alongside the Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, came to visit TWP Manufacturing.

These two major figures had made the trip to Tipton in order to officially open the CNC department, which had been ongoing for three years, having been started just before covid lockdown! TWP Manufacturing now employs six staff in the CNC shop and were very honoured to meet Shaun and Andy on this day.

Since then, Shaun Bailey has been keeping an open dialogue with TWP Manufacturing in regards to challenges within manufacturing in the local area and how we can work together to campaign for the British government to support UK manufacturing.

On Monday, TWP Manufacturing’s Managing Director Phil Stanley was invited to meet an unknown major cabinet member, only to find out 5 minutes before the meeting that he would be introduced to Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

Rishi Sunak was said to be in the area supporting local companies and spreading the word that this current Conservative government is looking to support local businesses.

Speaking on this meeting with the UK Prime Minister, TWP Manufacturing’s MD Phil Stanley said: “It’s great to see the British government and the Prime Minister wanting to engage with British manufacturing and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for this industry.”

Based in Dudley, Threeway Pressings specialises in the design and manufacture of precision pressings in ferrous and non-ferrous materials. Find out more on the company microsite.

Local Manufacturing Shines as Andy Street Officially Opens TWP Group's CNC Machine Shop

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 14/03/2023

The West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, recently paid a visit to TWP Group's official opening of the CNC machine shop in the Black Country. The event was a significant milestone for TWP Group, marking the completion of a three-year project that started just before the COVID-19 lockdown.

During his visit, Andy Street was given a full tour of the TWP Group factory and made time to meet all the staff, including the six employees in the CNC department.

Speaking about the visit, TWP Group's director Phil Stanley said, "We were very honored to welcome the Mayor and Shaun Bailey, MP at TWP's premises. Big thanks to everyone for your support, and it's always great to show what manufacturing is still done in the UK."

Andy Street was impressed by what he saw at TWP Group, and he took to Twitter to commend the company for their commitment to local manufacturing. He said, "The Black Country’s TWP Group is bringing manufacturing back to the UK & the WM. Instead of buying in parts from abroad, they’re making them here & at the same time creating local jobs. From wheelbarrows to camera equipment, there’s nothing they can’t do."

Phil Stanley also commented on the visit, saying, "It was great to have Andy Street visit our factory and see first-hand the work that we do here. Our CNC department is a crucial part of our business, and we're proud to be investing in local manufacturing and creating jobs in the process."

Overall, the visit of the West Midlands Mayor was a significant event for TWP Group and a positive sign for the future of UK manufacturing. With companies like TWP Group leading the way, there is hope that more businesses will follow suit and invest in local manufacturing, creating jobs and boosting the economy in the process.

THREEWAY TRUMPS BREXIT

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 22/02/2017

Whilst the business and political elite come to terms with a year of unpredictable results and instability Threeway Pressings celebrates a successful year of positive change.

Along with many small and medium sized manufacturing companies based in the UK we have continued to stay positive about our abilities to produce and deliver excellent quality. This is achieved at a competitive price and just as importantly with great customer service.

The past year has seen significant changes in how we operate here at Threeway. These changes have of course been with challenges which we have managed to overcome with hard work and good team ethic.

Our Brands have been buoyed by the expansion of our sales and marketing team. We have greatly improved the quantity and quality of our social media over the last 12 months and the brands now have more positive presence in their respective market places. This will be boosted again next year with Paterson exhibiting at THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW at the NEC in March 2017 and the Gardening Brands, Bullbarrow, Spyrabase and Radius, once again securing a stand at BBC GARDENERS WORLD at the NEC in June 2017.

Next year our websites will be radically overhauled to bring them in line with the latest designs and enable them with the smart phone technology required for future years.

On the Manufacturing side of the business we have also benefitted from Phil Stanleys positive approach to UK Manufacturing. We have continued to innovate and this year we have protected a puncture proof tyre, a foldable spade and a tourniquet. These are for very distinctive market places and will further enhance our claim to be one of the most diverse manufacturing companies in the UK.

The innovations have been supported by assistance from Warwick University who provided an internship to prove our designs by undertaking final research and testing of the Puncture proof tyre and are assisting with the final product design for the Tourniquet. Scott Harrison of Swindell and Pearson Ltd has also been a great help guiding us through the minefield of IPR protection on these new products.

With over 100 attendees our record breaking turnout at the Made in the Midlands breakfast morning in July allowed us to show our full range of capabilities to many peers and prospective suppliers and customers. An event which was enjoyed by staff and visitors alike and we thank them all for their support.

This was followed up by our recent award for manufacturing achievement received in October at the Made in the Midlands awards. Here at Threeway we see this as a superb accolade to our abilities bearing in mind the array of talented and fantastic larger businesses potentially in the running. Threeway have also debuted on MIM TV recently and will be returning to the Made in the Midlands show next May to support and promote midlands manufacturing.

Any Pressing or Injection Moulding enquiries please contact Phil Stanley or Richard Perry on 0121 520 2345 or visit our website www.threewaypressings.co.uk

Leading the way in UK Manufacturing

Made in the Midlands discusses the future of manufacturing at the European Parliament

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 20/09/2015

Following a successful visit to Westminster earlier in the year, Threeway Pressings and a select group of Made in the Midlands members went to the European Parliament in Brussels to talk to MEPs and find out how the EU impacts manufacturing firms in the build up to in/out referendum.

Phil Stanley and Richard Perry from Threeway along with other members had discussions with several British MEPs who are elected from Midlands constituencies from Conservative, Labour and UKIP to discuss their thoughts on how the EU operates and what the UK leaving the union would do for the county and manufacturing sector.

Made in the Midlands met with Jim Carver, a UKIP MEP who sponsored the visit and Dan Dalton from the Conservative party on the first day before having a tour of the Parliament and getting to see where the 781 MEP from across Europe vote on new legislations.

Members then spoke with Anthea McIntyre, a conservative MEP and Neena Gill from the Labour Party who shared their viewpoint on the European Union's impact on the single market and its effects on SMEs.

The members even had the chance to speak to UKIP leader Nigel Farage, who was in Brussels to meet with Jim Carver.

Jason Pitt CEO of Made in the Midlands said "The UK is about to vote on its future in Europe and I think it's fair to say as a nation we do not have the right information to make an informed decision.

This event was an opportunity for us to learn more about the European parliament and debate the future of the uk in Europe.

We now intend to debate this further with members and once we have reached a consensus, will promote the manufacturing communities viewpoint to help the British public understand how this will affect our economy.

PLANNING AHEAD – THE NEXT 20 YEARS FOR THREE WAY PRESSINGS

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 11/11/2015

Threeway Pressings is continuing its business strategy of employing young people with potential to succeed in diverse roles from administration through production and distribution to skilled and semiskilled engineering roles.

We took on our first apprentice twenty years ago straight from school.

Under the mentorship of Phil Stanley this young man thrived from his involvement in many diverse activities within the company from Toolmaking to Production and Manufacturing.

The achievements were not only Technical his personality also developed, from a shy youth in his {rst years at Threeway, he now has the personality and skills to be employed as the Companys works manager reporting directly to the Directors and orchestrating the day to day activities of the Company and its 50 employees.

The ethos at Threeway Pressings has always been to give opportunities to people seeking to better themselves and make a contribution.

Over the last twenty years Threeway has employed and encouraged many young people to have a career in Engineering and Manufacturing despite the sometimes negative press the industry receives.

More recently, with advancements in technology, the workplace for the engineer is becoming more modern and diverse which can only be a positive change. In October this year, with the ageing demographic still existing within the skilled sector of manufacturing, Threeway took on not one but two new apprentices.

One in toolmaking and one in press setting. With the assistance of Linda at LEMA YLean Engineering and Manufacturing Academy) they have been employed with Threeway for a two year duration with Day release. Already after a short time they have become fully engaged with the company its employees and the companys desire to strengthen manufacturing in the midlands area.

Over the last few years Threeway has been approached by individuals cold calling for job possibilities. One young man came to the door hoping for a job in our welding facility, at the time a vacancy wasnt available but the enthusiasm and desire shown to knock on the door could not be ignored.

The young man in question was taken on in the automatic press shop and now is involved in the setting and operating of a number of presses and machinery vital to Threeways future On another occasion a lad straight from school, who was looking for employment, came to our reception. Initially he was turned down as he was considered unsuitable for a vacancy we had in tube manipulation. As he was leaving the premises we reconsidered and asked him back.

We couldnt ignore his desire and willingness to and employment in engineering. That young lad is now responsible for all our tube manipulation requirements off our 5axis Langbow and DB40 Tube manipulation machines.

Threeway Pressings have always been surprised at how adaptable people can be when given the opportunities, training and encouragement. Our continuing growth and diversi{cation into many aspects of Engineering, Manufacturing and Distribution will only enhance and open up further opportunities within our business.

‘Threeway Pressings continues to champion UK Manufacturing’

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 09/02/2012

Titpon based manufacturer Threeway Pressings has entered 2012 off the back of a storming year which has seen both investment and growth into new markets. The firm has made significant investment over the last 12 months into its sister businesses Bull Barrow, Paterson Photographic and Spyra-base – all of which are starting to bear fruit and the firm as a whole is starting to realise a lot of the hard work that has gone on over the last 12 months.

On the presswork front, Threeway Pressings has won new business to supply Porsche, in green energy markets in the solar panel industry and won business back from China for a major door hardware manufacturer. Finally, the significant capital investment made in a new press last year has put through 1.8 million parts over the last 12 months which has kept the traditional business ticking on well and more than justified the investment made a year ago.

For Spyra-Base, the innovate ground anchor solution, all investment is now complete with machinery on site and a new website to follow – allowing full traceability through the firm’s ISO 9000 accreditation. The firm has also recruited a new business development manager to assist with distributing what is now an expansive product portfolio into new markets. Spyra-Base has Kamban stock held for these products, allowing a 2 day turnaround and has succeeded getting the product into one of the mainstream DIY outlets. Through re-engineering, Spyra-Base products have now been produced faster and lighter than before, making it easier to get to the customer, easier to use, cheaper to make but with the same high quality.

On the Bull-Barrow side of the business for the gardening and outdoor market - the new ‘Bull-Cart’ line was launched at the 2011 Glee show at the NEC and has proven to be a fantastic success in the market - it now has full copyright and design rights – the cart itself is now being successfully distributed through major agents. The new Bull-Barrow website recently launched a new equestrian range within the site to expand into the equestrian market. This has generated a new role within the company for a dedicated manager to oversee channel distribution.

Paterson Photographic this year launched the most powerful studio light in the soft light market and the most versatile – with a full UK patent to protect it and will be shown off at the Focus Exhibition at the NEC in March 2012, where the firm will be the only UK manufacturer there.
Threeway Pressings, Bull Barrow and Spyra-Base have stepped up their social media communication to promote products and interact with customers. Richard Perry, Director said “We’re keeping up with the most advanced manufacturing techniques to lead in our relative markets but that doesn’t stop on the shop floor – social media is allowing us to communicate with our target market in new ways and we’re ensuring we make use of this.”

The firm is trying to open up opportunities to follow the launch of the new products the group has bought to market. Managing Director Phil Stanley commented “We are looking to grow our regional opportunities having successfully bought new products to market, but you won’t go anywhere else in the Midlands and find such diverse operations as well as a firm that produces and sells its own products as an OEM.

Innovative Tipton Firm Lighting The Way

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 09/02/2012

Tipton based Threeway Pressings by their name are largely associated with their ability to undertake a broad spectrum of traditional presswork, but are becoming equally well known for their sound R & D work, prototyping and wide array of skills to bring exciting products to fruition, delivered straight to the end user. In many ways, the firm could be regarded as an OEM, amongst other projects they are responsible for the ongoing design, manufacture and innovation of household photographic brand Patterson Photographic.

Phil Stanley, Managing Director of Threeway Pressings comments; “Historically the firm would import parts from China, as do most other European firms in this industry but we decided that it could be done locally. After scouting some of the major European shows we realised that China was very much dominating this market. We put together some CAD drawings and came away with a market ready product, made here in the Midlands.”

Phil Stanley and fellow director Richard Perry started designing the lights and have created inserts in the die process to achieve the interchangeable parts that are part and parcel of the photographic industry. It is manufactured in a way that allows the units keep up to date with new technologies such as the emergence of LED’s. All parts and die casts are locally made, the injection moulded elements for instance are done down the road by their associated company Tisa Injection Moulding.

Threeway Pressings have made the lights to be interchangeable to mate with anything else in the market – but the difference is their British heritage and the UK service element that comes after sale. If there is a new part required or a problem with a unit, it can be sent out from Tipton the next day – “anyone who wants to wait for China is welcome to” comments Phil.

Interestingly, the units that come out of China are not of the same quality. Phil believes “It is no more expensive than the ones coming in from China as theirs are sold to middle men, who import them which are then subjected to increasing fuel costs and are then sent to agents who apply their own margin. “

“If we manufacture locally, we can source locally, assemble locally and its then going straight from the manufacturer through to the end user. Yes labour rates are higher in the UK, but we’ve offset that through bringing the whole process here. We’ve got people within our group who are industry experts in the photographic industry so we’ve got a constant tap on knowledge of use of the product so we can do this very well.”

Most of the competing units in the market are made of plastic – they are frequently used in schools and colleges and can be subjected to significant use and often brutal handling. Patterson Photographic units are manufactured out of aluminium and because they are British made, they are made to last.

Threeway Pressings have gone back to their customers and people who know the Patterson brand (Patterson Photographical) with their new products such as the new tripods and other accessories – the customer knows the brand well and the relationship is such that there is trust in what they’re doing.

The Union jack is also displayed proudly on Patterson Photographic and other Threeway Pressings products. Phil remarks; “This is very important on our products – we have noticed the flag starting to reappear more and firms are becoming bolder in its usage. This is something we’ve always done – in the international arena, the British brand is almost a hallmark. We are one of the very few firms in the UK that manufacture lighting here which is important.”

“We’re always looking to innovate and keep on top of new technology that the consumer can use. The future of lights in this industry is in the use of LED’s – its different as its a cool light and is far more intensive on the electronics side. The beauty is, electronics have moved along so much its not so difficult. This is going to allow us to retain our current case sizes containing more circuit boards but will allow us to dim or brighten accordingly – its something that is in development at the moment.”

The firm is pulling together in one direction and it ensures that Threeway and its interests are focused on a communal goal – this is important for a firm with so many strings to its bow.

Threeway Pressings also manufactures wheelbarrows for end users. Like any product manufactured, distribution channels are the main headache for the parent manufacturer. For Threeway Pressings, getting the product into Tesco stores was a real success and after supplying into them for more than 12 months now, they have a happy customer. This has since opened the door to firm being able to turn its hand to a range of equipment for the gardening industry.

Threeway Director Richard comments; “We’ve invested in the machinery that we need, we’ve done the tooling we require and it means we can hit the ground running with a new product like this.”

TWENTY YEARS IN MANUFACTURING

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 13/10/2015

Threeway Pressings Limited began its journey in October 1995 in one small unit with two machines and two employees.

In its early days Threeway Predominately serviced the automotive sector and indeed still continues to expand its customer base in this sector, however over the years, due to the volatility of trading, it has expanded into many varied sectors of manufacturing and is now one of the most diverse manufacturing companies in the United Kingdom.

The company is based at its own purpose built facilities that extends to three acres. Its well equipped power press units have high speed automatic and single action presses up to 250 tonne, along with the latest in servo driven coil feeders. A wide range of materials is used to manufacture precision components with high speed production providing economically competitive quality products.

The combination of presses and ability to operate high and low batch quantities enables Threeway Pressings to undertake a truly comprehensive range of presswork. After its first few years of trading many customers were impressed with levels of service and commitment received from Threeway and enquired about new products in particular Plastic Injection moulded parts.

This paved the way for an extension to the metal pressings business and high quality injection moulded parts became a new and expanding part of the business with the added benefits of allowing over moulding of pressed metal parts to reduce handling of customer products.

The companys manufacturing facilities have continued to grow over the last 20 years with the addition of an area specifically dedicated to welding and fabrication, two tube manipulation machines, bespoke rolling machines as well as increasing its supplier portfolio to offer powder coating, plating and heat treatment and many more. These leaps forward in our manufacturing facilities have allowed us to deal not only on a business to business sub contract level with our customers but also create product ranges with a life of their own.

Injection moulding supplies a large majority of all our darkroom products for Paterson Photographic the worlds largest and leading distributor of Darkroom equipment. Paterson also supplies niche tripods under the BENBO brand assembled in Tipton and sold nationally and Continuous Lighting for the digital era comprising of products sourced in the West Midlands.

Tube manipulation and welding have paved the way for the Bull barrow division of products to be manufactured and distributed from Tipton. The Bull barrow brand boasts a wide range of wheelbarrows sold to 250 Garden Centres nationwide and has a strong presence on the internet due to a number of significant dropship arrangements with key players in the industry.

The development of a rolling machine allowed us to repatriate the production of all the Spyrabase products from eastern Europe and the far east and to allow the product to not only be available for quick despatch and delivery but also to maintain costs at the imported prices due to clever reengineering of the product range.

Our final association commenced only last year with Radius /Brilliant Garden Products. A range of ergonomically tested attractive garden and hand tools became available for distribution throughout our Garden Centre network and internet selling platforms. The product range fits our portfolio of quality and niche product ranges.

The development of our brands has enabled us to separate the assembly, distribution management of the own products into a separate unit. Commercial Feature Twenty years on, Three Way Pressings is now one of the most diverse manufacturing companies in the UK S

The Branding of British Success

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 04/10/2016

At Threeway Pressings we have always believed in British manufacturing.

The Brexit vote has come and gone and a decision was made but whatever the economic outlook, short or long term, we believe that we need to have confidence in our abilities, as a manufacturing nation, to make high quality products and still remain competitive in the global market place.

Within Threeways portfolio there are two iconic British brands.

Paterson photographic distributes photographic hardware for the analogue market. Historically these products have been strong in the education markets all over the world and with over 150 product lines it is seen as the last man standing in its market place.

Recently there has been a resurgence in the use of {lm with many schools, colleges and universities re building darkrooms. Science and Art and craft departments are seeing an increase in the use of Darkrooms to produce innovative pieces of photographic art and also be seen as an aid to science due to the use of chemicals and different paper types.

BENBO tripods is held with similar pride within the companys suite of products. The BENBO tripods are renowned for being strong, reliable and portable and has a large following with ramblers and nature lovers due to its flexibility and ability to reach places other tripods cannot.

Over the last few months both these beloved British brands have undergone signi{cant manufacturing changes to not only enhance their place in current markets but also to expand into new markets in America, Europe and the Far East.

Many of the darkroom items were fully assembled at our Tipton premises. They comprised a vast array of moulded products, from our injection moulding facility, and some selected bought out parts.

Assembly involved collating in some case 20 separate parts to be assembled with a significant amount of double handling as well as demanding much needed warehouse space.

The cycle times and packaging requirements were reviewed using Lean manufacturing principles and now 80% of the moulded parts are assembled during the cycle times at the injection moulding factory. This assembly includes packaging and incorporates the additional bought out goods.

This means that products supplied into the Tipton warehouse are {nished products, barcoded and ready for distribution. The challenge required with the BENBO tripod range was different. BENBO tripods had been made the same way for 30 years and had used predominately the same supply base.

This has now changed with all bought out components including drawn tube, aluminium castings and sub contract services Made in the Midlands. This review of the supply base has achieved a reduction in costs and expedited the making process.

In house we have also modi{ed our production of the leg assembly reducing the manufacturing time tenfold by the innovative use of a swaging machine to attach the leg head castings to the leg tubes.

The changes to the Paterson darkroom production has also created warehouse space to allow larger batch quantities of tripods to be manufactured thereby achieving economies of scale in the production.

These changes will allow both the darkroom products and the tripods to enhance their UK and European markets but also reach further out into the global market with more competitive, British made, iconic Brands.

Threeway would like to thank all involved in this manufacturing turnaround process especially our Injection Moulding facility and the staff members in our Warehousing unit.

OUR FOCUS IS UK MANUFACTURING

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 22/02/2017

2017 has begun with the same air of instability that 2016 ended with. However, like many companies in the Midlands its business as usual at Threeway.

We begin our year with an update on Paterson Photographic, a manufacturer and distributor of photographic hardware from Traditional Darkroom products through to Tripods and venturing into the digital era with our soon to be expanded Studio Lighting Range.

In March Paterson Photographic will be exhibiting at the Photography show, at the NEC, for the frst time in 4 years. This follows a review of all areas of the business from branding to websites and from improving manufacturing processes to enhancing distribution channels both in the UK and overseas.

New branding and new improved mobile friendly websites were an aim of the Thruway group this year. We have started with Paterson and given a traditional well-known brand a 21st century facelift without losing its identity. The new logo will now be the starting point of the new website which will be completed prior to the show and will include many of the features required for a product distributed worldwide but will still keep its customer service focus.

Improvements in the production of Benbo Tripods have enabled new partners to be acquired to assist in the worldwide sales drive and enabled us to be ambitious with our 2017 and 2018 growth plans for this beloved British product.

UK sales are already increasing and we are in discussions with our current European distributors and hoping to improve our USA foothold considerably over the next few months. As British manufacturers the weakening of the pound has opened doors which were previously closed. It is our aim to make the very best of these opportunities and show the world the best of British manufacturing.

The traditional Darkroom products have also shown a resurgence in recent years with volume up more than 10% last year and signs of more growth this year. Kodak have re-entered the marketplace with Ektachrome flm after 5 years out of analogue which only fuels our enthusiasm and investment. Some of the darkroom range have been redeveloped including our enlarger timers.

Prior to our modifcations different circuit boards were required for each geographical location due to each location requiring different plugs. We now have one circuit board and the product can be easily switched to accommodate the requirements of all our customers. This has been achieved with the assistance of a UK manufacturer who we have worked closely with to redesign and resource the board. This shows how UK companies can compete when determined to keep a brand in the UK.

Recent surveys have indicated a large following for analogue exists within the age range 25 to 34. We have therefore undertaken the printing of product fact sheets to ensure the art of analogue flm developing is not lost to the next generation. These fact sheets will be available on our new website for downloading and be available via social media.

As with the tripods, distribution channels for the studio lighting range of products are opening up with the current economic situation. Possibilities for growth later in 2017 are becoming more abundant.

Due to our confdence we have engaged the services of Warwick University to enable our lighting system to accommodate an LED light appropriate for the photographic industry. This module approach to our lighting systems is only possible as the light is manufactured in the United Kingdom and the customer service is available to back up our products.

TWP reshores business by designing ball and socket head

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 27/03/2020

Tipton based manufacturing Group Three Way Pressings has designed a ball and socket head to manufacture in house. This new design will be part of their Paterson Photographic range, which were previously imported from China.

For the past 10-15 years, Paterson's Photographics ball and socket head products were imported from China. Due to the current COVID-19 epidemic, it has proven difficult for many manufacturers to get goods in from the country. Therefore Phil Stanley, Managing Director at the TWP Group, took matters into his own hands and designed a ball and socket head so customers can still purchase the products they require.

Ball and Socket heads give great flexibility of movement for cameras placed on a tripod, Phil confirmed that 10 of these have already been manufactured and are now ready to be anodised. He continued:

"We have the ability now to restore some of our business by producing these and have managed to create a high-quality product at a lower price than we would have bought them from China. It is also helping the environment by not getting these goods imported, we also aren't waiting for the products to arrive."

"Paterson Photographic not only makes tripods now, but we make all of the accessories to go with it."

"We hope to re-open the manufacturing workshop on 14th April, when I plan to make 100."

Threeway Pressings specialises in the design and manufacture of precision pressings in ferrous and non-ferrous materials. TWP Group consists of Paterson Photographic, BullBarrow and Spyrabase.

Their aim is to meet the niche market for small scale, high volume press work with a capacity from 1.5 tonnes to 250 tonnes, especially for automotive and domestic OEM's (Original Equipment Manufacturers). The company has a real edge in short lead times and fast turn-round, with a reliable, quality service which emphasises presentation and performance throughout.

They take pride in their reputation for being able to supply quality products for inclusion in many applications for a wide range of industries.

Contact TWP today by visiting their microsite https://twpmanufacturing.madeinthemidlands.com/

Road ahead looks good for Threeway

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 09/02/2012

Investment, diversification and added-value services have been the three key elements behind the growing success of Threeway Pressings over the past 18 months. In that time, the specialist engineering firm has seen both turnover and profitability climb steadily.

Since it was founded 16 years ago, the Tipton company has specialised in the manufacture of precision components in ferrous and non-ferrous metals, predominantly supplying the automotive, construction, white goods (domestic appliances) and leisure sectors.

Its purpose-built factory is equipped with a large number of presses, with varied capacities from 1.5 tonnes to 200 tonnes, giving Threeway the capability to undertake a broad spectrum of presswork from simple clipping and blanking through to complex multi-stage progression tooling, at both low and high volumes, and with lead times as little as two weeks.

Threeway’s plant list includes high-speed Raster and Rhodes power presses, ranging in capacity from 25 tonnes to 200 tonnes and offering speeds from 100 to 600 strokes per minute. Furthermore, the company has no less than 45 single-operation presses for secondary operations, with or without die-cushions, and various press brakes, both hydraulic and mechanical. Many of its presses are fitted with the latest servo-driven coil feeders, automatically supplying the tool with stock material up to 400mm wide and 5mm thick with an accuracy of 0.1mm. (The company also retains a good selection of traditional hand-operated machines.)

“We’ve just taken delivery of another 200 tonne press,” director Phil Stanley told Business Report. “We are constantly investing in and updating our machinery.”

Parts are manufactured from a huge range of metals, including many types of steel (mild, carbon, hot-rolled, nickel-coated), aluminium, brass, copper, phosphor bronze, zintec and beryllium copper. Different components made by Threeway include:

• a variety of both metal and spring pressings

• electrical components including connectors, courtesy switches and socket locators

• locks, handles and door furniture

• car and vehicle parts

• coins and gaming tokens

• bracketry for various industries

• lighting and heating components such as clips and fasteners.

With its Heenan multi-form machines, Threeway has extensive facilities for piercing, bending and forming a wide range of materials up to 1mm thick, producing parts that would not normally be able to be made on press tools due to the complexity of the component shape. In addition, Threeway has in-house plastic injection-moulding facilities, with a capacity of up to 450 tonnes, and the capability to assemble and package products ready for retailers’ shelves.

As part of its ongoing commitment to offer all its customers a total service, Threeway is also able to offer a number of painting, plating and surface treatments, enabling it to supply components finished to precise individual requirements. For this, it has built up an approved list of subcontractors that offer heat treatment, austempering, case hardening, plating, powder coatings and other processes, normally on a 24-hour service.

To extend its capabilities still further and access more markets, the company has diversified into MIG, spot and robotic welding, CNC tube bending and manipulation, and fabrication and full assembly.

Phil added: “Our strategy has been to transform the business from just making traditional press parts and then letting somebody else finish them to supplying more and more finished goods.

“It is cheaper, quicker and easier for customers if they can have their products manufactured, finished and packed in one place rather than having to send parts to different suppliers. And if we can handle the whole production process, we will be better able to control the quality of the final product.

“We are constantly looking for manufacturing opportunities to expand and develop the business. Today we are making a range of parts and products which in the past we would never have even looked at.”

Examples of products that Threeway used to only supply parts for but now manufactures in their entirety include an expanding range of gardening tools and accessories, in particular wheelbarrows. By producing these products so cost-effectively, its target customer base of small and medium-sized garden centres is able to sell them at prices which make them competitive with the large DIY chains. Always keen to take advantage of all market opportunities, however, Threeway also supplies some of the 40 different models in its wheelbarrow range to the retail giant Tesco.

Customers seeking research and development support also need look no further. Threeway frequently works closely with clients on projects from the initial stages of a new design, advising on the selection of materials, perfecting the prototype, ensuring the part is suitable for the intended application, while at the same time minimising tooling and production costs in line with the latest lean manufacturing techniques. Its engineering team uses state-of-the-art CAD/CAM software packages for both product and tool design.

These services are proving increasingly popular with Threeway’s customers in the automotive – it is a tier one supplier to leading car manufacturers – and construction sectors. “This is another area where we are succeeding,” commented Phil. “We get called in by a lot of companies who need to make a new product but simply don’t know how.

“Unlike many of our competitors, we have the experience, the technical ability and the facilities to design products and bring customers’ ideas to the marketplace quickly and cost-effectively. Our expertise covers every aspect of product design and press tooling.

“This way we are successfully building long-term working partnerships with leading OEMs, providing them with integrated supply solutions which offer significant economic benefits.”

On the quality front, Threeway is accredited to ISO 9001 and QS 9000, an internationally recognised standard designed specifically for the automotive industry. It has invested in a bespoke materials requirements planning (MRP) system with shop-floor data capture, providing full traceability from receipt of order to dispatch. Threeway is also able to supply full production part approval process (PPAP) and statistical process control (SPC) data.

TWP Manufacturing raise £1,650 for Midlands Air Ambulance

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 30/05/2017

Made in the Midlands and Threeway Pressings are proud to announce that we have collectively raised £1,650 for the Midlands Air Ambulance at our record-breaking Made in the Midlands exhibition.

The charity raffle was hosted by Threeway Pressings, who also vowed to double the amount raised at the event. Wrekin Sheet Metals Sales Director, Simon Orpe was declared the lucky winner of the raffle and was presented with a Bullbarrow filled with alcohol.

Managing Director of Threeway Pressings, Phil Stanley said: We are immensely proud of raising £1,650 for such a great cause at the exhibition. Each time we host a charity raffle, we are blown away by the charitable nature of the membership base. It is another great showcase of the charity work Midlands manufacturers do throughout the year.

Threeway Pressings specialises in the design and manufacture of precision pressings in ferrous and non-ferrous materials. The company take pride in their reputation for being able to supply quality products for inclusion in many applications for a wide range of industries. Threeway complete charity work throughout the year for a variety of cancer charities.

Made in the Midlands CEO, Jason Pitt said: Threeway Pressings showcased their extensive range of great brands and services at the exhibition but their charity work really is fantastic. We would like to thank everybody for donating to the Midlands Air Ambulance Service and we will continue to support Threeways charity raffles in the future.

What is not widely known is that Midlands Air Ambulance receives no Government or National Lottery funding. Each Midlands Air Ambulance mission costs £2,500 and in excess of £7 million is needed each year to keep its three air ambulances operational, which is donated entirely by the public and local businesses, with four in ten of those we help funded by Gifts in Wills.

Made in the Midlands would like to thank every member or non-member for their participation in the charity raffle for Midlands Air Ambulance. We would also like to thank Threeway Pressings for being such brilliant charity ambassadors within the Midlands.

To find out more about the Midlands Air Ambulance Service, please visit: http://www.midlandsairambulance.com/about-us/about-us

TWP Continues to Reshore Work from Far East Despite Challenges

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 25/01/2022

Leading precision pressings manufacturer Threeway Pressings (TWP) continues to set the standard for British manufacturing with their latest investment. Despite ongoing challenges with COVID-19 over the past couple of years, TWP has increased revenue by 15% and have purchased another milling machine that will help reshore work back to the UK. This will be the company’s 12th machine purchased in under three years.

Tipton based Threeway Pressings are nothing short of spectacular when it comes to reshoring work back to the UK. With an ever increasing order book, filled with UK clients who were purchasing large quantities from the far east, TWP have purchased yet another Milling Machine - their third XYZ 2-OP. The reason for the purchase came after winning a major contract with a UK based tier one supplier, however agreed that the new machine would help with the growing order book.

With the world looking to manufacturers to become more sustainable as we strive to lower the earth’s carbon footprint, TWP’s commitment to reshoring work back to the UK has tremendous benefits all round. Phil Stanley, Managing Director at TWP, said:

“The machine is for high volume production milling, and will produce around 12,000 parts in a year. One of the major benefits of the purchase is our opportunity to reshore work from the far east. This means more and more UK businesses have the chance to lower their carbon footprint, not pay rising shipping costs and have their products with them in as little as 2-3 weeks - rather than 8-12.”

It seems the last 24 months have given businesses a chance to reevaluate where they are purchasing their products from. Take Jaguar Land Rover as an example, the leading automotive company have struggled to purchase electric chips from the far east due to shortages in the past and thus have reshored business back to the UK as a result.

The ongoing demand from TWP customers has also led the company to carry out late night manufacturing. With machines running until 10 o’clock in the evening, TWP will have the capacity to produce 35,000 parts a month. As a result, the business has amazingly created four new roles, hiring people from the local area. Phil concluded:

“By investing in machinery over the last three years, we have had full control over quality and delivery dates for our customers. It has given us invaluable flexibility and the ability to take on new work - resulting in a 15% increase in turnover. Reshoring work back to the UK gives us greater understanding and the chance to better control costs, in addition, consignment stock headaches are gone as they are no longer managed by an external company.”

To find out more head to https://www.threewaypressings.co.uk/

TWP Manufacturing Group collaborate with WMG to develop LED Technology

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 14/08/2018

Tipton-based darkroom specialists Paterson Photographic Ltd, part of the TWP Manufacturing Group, have added daylight to darkness in their leading studio and theatre lighting equipment, thanks to LED technology support from WMG at the University of Warwick.

Having developed a global reputation for the quality of their darkroom equipment, they wanted to add to their product offering and re-enter the studio lighting market with a comprehensive range of Continuous Lighting units manufactured in their own UK factory.

Creating a studio lighting range that used LEDs with a colour temperature of 6000K (daylight) rather than the most common methods using fluorescent lighting would provide Paterson Photographic with a technological leap in their products.

The SME (Small and Medium Sized Enterprises) support team at WMG at the University of Warwick provided technical and research support allowing the company to launch the first batch of LED-based daylight products with bespoke coloured filters at the 2018 Photography Show at Birmingham’s NEC. The new products are expected to generate sales in six figures for Paterson over the next year.

Dave Norman from WMG said “We created a bespoke electronic circuit for Paterson that was designed, built, tested and mounted into their existing lamp housings using 24 high-power 6000K LEDs to achieve daylight brightness with a much more efficient lighting system.We were able to help with solder pad design, component placement, printed circuit structure and the challenges of thermal resistance measurements.

“This means that Paterson products that will not only be attractive to new customers but will also generate sales from customers wanting to retrofit to more efficient, longer lasting LED based studio technology.” “It has also encouraged the company to explore the use of the same technology in new fields, such as theatre lighting.”

Phil Stanley, Managing Director of Paterson Photographic said: “Working with WMG, we have developed an innovative new addition to the photographic market that will boost sales and create jobs.”

Proud Midlands firm Bullbarrow announces new ergonomically friendly gardening range previously made in China

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 13/04/2014

In just about any other industry, design has developed and improved regularly over time, making the lives of todays consumers both more pleasant and more efficient. So why have garden implements been ignored? Ergonomics is the study of making products optimally comfortable to use maintains one of a team of American industrial designers. Chris Adams, a human factor engineer involved in advanced ergonomics for tooling further explains for garden tools, the first essentials of design include the ease of lifting and balancing which will in turn automatically expedite work tasks. Such changes in product performance help to decrease fatigue, avoid injuries, and generally improve quality of life for the gardener.

Managing Director Phil Stanley Bullbarrow and Threeway Pressings comments "Its a real boost for Midlands industry that these products are available on the high street, sourced locally from UK manufacturers, designed and built by Midlands firms - previously an American product, manufactured in China - now a UK product, bought back from China for the European market. We've been able to turn our hand and expertise to create these high performance garden tools which have ticked all of the consumers boxes."

Every product in the range of tools from Brilliant Garden Products is carefully manufactured using the highest quality materials and techniques available. From their best selling naturally easier hand tools, with blades fashioned in aluminium and magnesium for a combination of lightness and strength, and their comfortable curved handles cushioning any impact to hands and wrists, this innovative 6-piece set of hand tools help to make gardening (even weeding!) a joy instead of a chore. Moving on through the wide range of tools from Brilliant Garden Products, the extra-long fibreglass shafts combined with the tough carbon steel blades of the popular Pro-Lite digging tools, on to the superb quality of the professional Pro tools made entirely of premium grade stainless steel with resin-encased shafts, topped by the globally famous O cushion handle which allows room for both hands (giving advanced leverage), and to the eclectic assortment of clever time and labour saving products which satisfy the needs of any gardener - regardless of age or ability - it seems that modernity has finally evolved in the garden tool industry.

To top it all, the purchase price throughout the entire Brilliant Garden Product range is remarkably affordable, even taking into account all the dedicated aspects employed over many years to perfect these extraordinary products. Their fame has spread across the globe, while the appreciation of these revolutionary tools is wide and generous, with some happy consumers even writing to say things like just seeing their cheerful colours around my garden makes me smile - surely an accolade in a category all its own.

Why not visit our website www.brilliantgardenproducts.co.uk and see for yourself. Plus, see

Bullbarrows updated site www.bullbarrow.co.uk covering their complete range, now available.

TWP Uses Expertise to Produce Cost Effective Product to Help Disable People

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 27/08/2021

Leading pressings manufacturer Threeway Pressings (TWP), based in Tipton, has been sharing their expertise with famous Dragon’s Den business - Magloc to create more cost effective products. The original concept from Magloc entails a simple-to-use, one handed connector designed for dog collars. However their latest design Soloc - Freedom-belt, will allow people with limited mobility to have more control over lap belts and stair lift safety belts. The innovative product allows user independence using magnetic attraction. The collaboration is a result of a connection made at a Made in the Midlands event.

The recent partnership between TWP and Magloc/Soloc highlights the power of the British manufacturing industry. An example of how UK businesses are further supporting the UK economy whilst striving to reduce their carbon footprint.

Phil Stanley, Managing Director of Threeway Pressings, was introduced to the company after connecting with Steve Shickell, Sales, Marketing and Service Director at LK Metrology, at a Made in the Midlands event. The two connected at the Made Angels meet up, an investor network striving to help save British owned businesses, in early June 2021. Founder and Managing Director of Magloc Tony Garlick is a close friend and shareholder with Steve for the Magloc/Soloc brand, which initiated the opening for TWP. Phil said:

“The original deal saw us assemble 5,000 parts for the Magloc brand. Since then we have been working together for the Soloc product, and after two weeks, we have produced a working prototype. Whilst many people bring ideas to TWP, we really saw the potential for this product.

We used our manufacturing ability to make it more cost effective, utilising our experience in material selection and functionality. Therefore we are now working closely with Tony to produce other products with the same concept to help other individuals and industries.”

As Tony from Magloc/Soloc was an engineer himself, he feels the importance of keeping manufacturing in the UK. After searching for a manufacturer to produce the life changing product for quite some time, he is delighted to be working with TWP who have vast capabilities from design to production to distribution. Tony concluded:

“We are delighted to be working with TWP who will be producing all Soloc parts under one roof, from tooling to distribution. This is brilliant because it means it is reducing Soloc’s environmental impact, due to not having to subcontract all of these different processes. We have confidence in TWP and after a difficult year, we are really glad that Steve introduced us to them.”

MetroCAD, Alucast and EGL Vaughan Discuss UK Manufacturing with TWP’s Phil Stanley

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 07/07/2021

WATCH THE LATEST EPISODE OF THE EDITOR’S PICK WITH PHIL STANLEY HERE

The Made in Group kicked off the official first Midlands episode of the Editor’s Pick today with editor Phil Stanley - Managing Director of Threeway Pressings.

Phil sat down with Tony Sartorius (Chairman of Alucast Limited), Chris Needham (Managing Director of MetroCAD UK Ltd) and Daniel Cole (Business Development Manager at EGL Vaughan) to discuss their latest news stories

Phil kicked off the live segment, which is streamed across all Made in Group social channels every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month to the group’s 30K+ followers, by introducing himself and the new event.

As Editor, Phil had the opportunity to select 3 recent featured articles from the Made in the Midlands platform and spoke directly with the members who published them.

First up was Tony Sartorius, Chairman from Alucast, to discuss their article “Alucast Invest in New 5 Axis Machine to Further Increase Capacity”.

Alucast recently invested in a new, state-of-the-art Quaser 5 axis machine in order to further increase capacity to cope with demand from OEM’s and Tier 1 customers. Due to the ramped-up demand after the COVID-19 downturn, Alucast’s machine shop has pushed the boundaries of its capacity, with more orders on the horizon, the management team made the decision to invest to increase machine shop capacity.

“It was a bold decision at the time to invest and buy 6-axis machines”, alongside the property to house them and the people to be trained for using them, said Tony whilst speaking with Phil.

Tony, speaking at the potential of local industry, went on to say that “They talk about Birmingham being the city of a thousand trades, but so is the Black Country.”

Despite Alucast being a relatively small company with less than 100 customers, Tony emphasised that the company has been responsible for work that has been seen by the majority of people worldwide. As Alucast made castings for the Olympic torch from back in 2012, seen by billions of people worldwide.

Next up was Dan Cole from EGL Vaughan to discuss their article “BIG Things for EGL Vaughan After Award Winning Success”.

Precision engineering specialists EGL Vaughan have made a name for themselves after being recognised as ‘Best Precision Machining Specialists’ by SME News. After being acquired by Allied Global Engineering in 2020, EGL has also announced a facility move.

A new site has also been a great way to have a “clean sheet to start again” for EGL Vaughan, says Dan; allowing the company to focus on lean manufacturing and clearing out tooling and equipment which hadn’t been used in years.

Finally, Phil spoke with Chris Needham, Managing Director from MetroCAD UK Ltd to discuss their article “Metro CAD Encourage SMEs to Utilise Robot Capabilities with Renting Options Available Soon As New RoboRent Solution Comes to Market”.

The ongoing challenges around Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, have encouraged Metro CAD previously to invest in the metrology side of the business to add to the existing simulation and robot programming service. However, their new game-changing solution utilises the company’s long-established automation services toolset to their new robot cell service rental called RoboRent. This is a new solution in the marketplace removing much of the perceived pain and obvious financial constraints for companies that need to consider automation when the only other consideration is a large uplift in skilled labour which has its own issues.

Speaking with Phil, Chris said that “One of the myths of automation is that it replaces a man standing at a bench. It doesn’t.”

Instead, Chris suggests that the person can use the “robot” as a “tool” to speed up efficiency and increase quality of work, instead of them being replaced entirely.

Ultimately, for Chris, “we have no doubts that robots are the way forward”, as UK manufacturing has to ensure that our labour is working in the most efficient way possible.

The final question for Phil - asking the whole of the group - was “Is it coming home?” And with positive responses all around, let’s hope their passion is mirrored in tonight’s result for England!

WATCH THE LATEST EPISODE OF THE EDITOR’S PICK WITH PHIL STANLEY HERE

Threeway Flying High For Charity

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 02/06/2017

Whilst The UK economy and indeed the world economy are in uncertain times the outlook for the next few years is still for steady growth. TWP group are investing now to ensure that our manufacturing base is secure for the future hurdles. Recent and upcoming elections along with further question marks over European involvement will continue to challenge midlands manufacturers.

Threeway Manufacturing started 2017 by going through a rebrand, Director Phil Stanley said With all of the brands under the TWP group being so successful we feel 2017 was the perfect time to invest in new company branding. This will help modernise our brand and give a fresh approach as we aim to hit our goals and end 2017 on a high!

As technology is moving on it is pivotal that Threeway Manufacturing improved its online presence by reviewing their current website which is seen to be out of date. A more stylish and future proof website is what was needed for all the brands including Bullbarrow, Spyrabase and Paterson Photographic. Our new sites will have the latest e commerce technology enabling a customer friendly website on their smart phone, this will help fur fill our dropship potential.

During the month of March Paterson Photographic exhibited at Photography Show 2017, this was a great opportunity to show visitors the range of Benbo Tripods, a product assembled in the heart of the Midlands. The tripods have recently undergone a complete review of the manufacturing processes to allow distribution of the products to markets all over the world. Paterson also displayed its extensive range of traditional darkroom products , 95% of which are moulded and assembled at our injection moulding facility in Wolverhampton , and its digital age range of Studio lighting equipment and accessories.

Recently TWP Manufacturing exhibited at the Made in the Midlands Exhibition 2017 showing off the new company branding. TWP also felt this was a great time do their part for the community and raised over £1600 for the Midlands Air Ambulance. Director Richard Perry said we would like to thank all Made in the Midlands members for taking part in this years raffle. It is amazing to see so many Midlands manufactures coming together to raise money for charity, I'm sure we will be doing this again next year once again for our chosen charity Midlands Air Ambulance.

Over the upcoming weeks Bullbarrow and Spyrabase will be heading to BBC Gardeners World Live, here they plan to display more capabilities such as tube manipulation, injection moulding , presswork and fabrication. You will be able to see the product of our capabilities on stand G380.

Bullbarrow are market leaders in supplying and manufacturing a wide variety of wheelbarrows and gardening equipment in Europe. Currently manufacturing eight different types of wheel barrows in 7 different colours Bullbarrow continues to keep outstanding levels of customer services. Once again Threeway Manufacturing and Bullbarrow have donated 50 barrows to local schools, you will be on display at the BBC Gardeners World on Picnic Hill.

Any Pressing or Injection Moulding enquiries please contact Phil Stanley or Richard Perry on 0121 520 2345 or visit our website www.threewaypressings.co.uk.

TWP & Alucast Partner Just 24 Hours After Meeting

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 07/10/2021

Leading pressings manufacturer Threeway Pressings (TWP) recently partnered with Alucast after meeting at a Made in the Midlands event. The collaboration has resulted in establishing a close-knit industry relationship and shortening the supply chain for TWP.

Based in the Black Country Alucast offers a single-source supply of sand, gravity, and high-pressure aluminum castings. Tony Sartorius, Chairman of Alucast, and Phil Stanley, Managing Director at TWP, met at the Made in the Midlands taster event. After the two began chatting, just 24 hours later Alucast received an inquiry from TWP. Tony said:

“After meeting Phil at the MIM event within days our engineers went to visit the team at TWP. With a 200 ton die casting machine we managed to complete the work required, working closely with TWP who are situated only a few miles away from us. It's great when we can support other local Black Country businesses and by shortening the supply chain, we are helping the environment and our journey to net-zero by 2050.”

The collaboration has also been helping train young apprentices at Alucast. Sister company to Threeway Pressings Patterson Photographic produces trekker tripods that have been produced for over 40 years. Alucast has been producing the castings that go into the tripod legs, redeveloping a design that is decades old.

A young engineer on their 5-year apprenticeship helped produce the parts that were previously produced in batches of 100 within the hour. With Alucast’s help, they are now producing regularly thereby offering invaluable experience to the younger manufacturing generation. Tony added:

“The younger generation is the ones to carry on the Alucast legacy and by getting apprentices to support jobs like this helps secure future relationships with local companies. We believe in supporting local businesses to put money back into our economy, Made in the Midlands provides a great platform that enables us to do this. It is always nice to know that you are part of a group who all have the same interests at heart - promoting and championing Midlands manufacturing.”

Alucast will be producing 5,000 metal castings for the trekker tripod brand, allowing TWP to compete with Far East prices. Whilst TWP already modified and designed the tooling, they wanted to ensure it was locally sourced to reduce their carbon footprint. The two firms have future plans of Alucast producing another 10 castings for the Patterson photographic range.

Threeway gets a grip on growth

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 28/07/2014

An innovative Black Country manufacturer has designed and manufactured a new automatic hair clip using an new technique which makes it the first automatic hair clip to be made in this country. In doing so they have repatriated work from the Far East and invested in their business.

Tipton based Threeway Pressings were approached by a customer in the fashion industry who were previously out sourcing their own patented automatic hair clip in the Far East. They previously tried to set up production in the UK in early 2000 although this proved too expensive due to the design and the lack of suitable finishes. The customer had problems with quality control in Far East as the product was not fully automated due to the design.

To come up with a solution to counter the perception and to win the business, the firm set about producing a series of design led samples to overcome the problem. Ultimately they used serration forms to allow the component to be manufacture from one piece of material instead of having to rivet the legs together, this new design and techniques allows us to produce 2500 clips per hour and become more competitive than the Far East with far better quality and reduced lead times.

Threeways robust process of R&D, design, functionality, patent and scalability allowed them to win £250,000 worth of new business for one million units, assembly and tooling.

Managing Director Phil Stanley said: We took the Threeway mantra of 'thinking big' to tackle the high end market by manufacturing clips for the global market. We also partnered with other UK firms to further modify the clips using resins and coatings so the product can be customised, but flexible enough to run small batches. The customer will be also investing in tooling for injection moulding to make plastic tops to complement the new clip through our company.

Our customer invested £40k into tooling to produce the next orders in the UK for the hair clips using local toolmakers to make theprogression tooling as well as local suppliers. We estimate winning in the region of 500,000 units this year for global distribution.

Charles Addison, Director of Made in the Midlands concluded: Success has become standard for Threeway Pressings. They are well known for their problem solving engineering approach, typically utilised by global automotive powers but more recently in design and manufacture of their own products for the garden market. Their success story contains the elements that every manufacturer should aspire to - innovation, investment and growth.

THREEWAY’S BRANDING SUCCESS

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 08/02/2016

Everyone is aware of Threeway's strong manufacturing capabilities and its proven track record in innovation and diversity. What many do not know is there is much more to the story than that.

The past few years have seen a considerable strengthening of the companys own brands of gardening products and photographic darkroom equipment, tripods and studio lighting.

It all started many years ago when some machines and tooling became available which would take Threeway into new areas of manufacturing such as tube manipulation, welding and assembly. This kick-started an era of using manufacturing to build a range of our own gardening products and started a process of diversi{cation from which we have not looked back.

The range of gardening products has now grown to include a vast range of wheelbarrows in an array of colours, hand tools and gardening tools specially designed for ease of use and the revolutionary Spyrabase products with applications covering almost all possible market sectors known.

This year we have employed the services of a new member, George Rudge, to the sales and customer service team. She has recently joined us to promote and sell all our brands and to ensure we maintain our customer service levels over the coming years of growth.

Threeway currently have a marketing database of more than 30,000 trade and distribution contacts in the UK and Europe. These contacts are categorised into their distinct markets and sectors so regular marketing communication can be targeted.

The right product in essence is marketed to the right customers. Each month this database is and will continue to be enhanced and improved to ensure our marketing efforts are streamlined and efficient.

The online marketing presence has in itself led to a number of large internet and high street retailers contacting Threeway about its brands and now almost all its products are available for sdropship delivery straight to the end customers front door.

As is required these days, these products can be despatched same day or next day. Further investment in our distribution unit is underway at present to facilitate the anticipated growth in our brands and will be fully integrated with our MRP system to ensure order completeness and full traceability from our ISO 9000 quality certification.

This has all been made possible due to Threeways continuous investment in its manufacturing base from Presswork and Injection and blow mouldings to tube manipulation and fabrication.

Threeway as ever are always keen to expand into new markets and sectors in all areas of manufacturing.

If you have a product to be resourced in the UK, an idea which needs bringing to market or an invention requiring expert assistance, we are the Dragons for you.

MIM visits TWP

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 23/01/2020

ThreeWayPressings is one of Made in the Midlands longest-running and founding members. We visited their facility in Tipton to learn more about the company and find out the latest.

Tipton based company ThreeWayPressings (TWP) design and manufacture precision pressings in ferrous and non-ferrous materials. With a facility that reaches three acres and holds a range of machinery for multiple capabilities, TWP is able to supply different products for a number of industries and customers.

The company has gained particular expertise in progression tooling for high volume production runs which provides significant economic benefits to its customers. Clients are also able to approach TWP for their expertise in component design and material selection at any stage of a project, along with providing a comprehensive tool design and manufacturing service.

ThreeWayPressings is part of a larger organisation known as the TWP Group, this consists of Paterson Photographic, BullBarrow and Spyrabase. All four brands are manufactured at the company’s facility in Tipton, highlighting the companies vast capabilities. During our visit, Managing Director Phil Stanley showed us around and gave insight into how the products were made.

In the Automatic Press Shop, parts are manufactured for the Automotive industry, in particular, the production of headliners for vehicles. Phil explained how the company offers the complete range of services required for the supply of pressed metal components with state of the art equipment undertaking an array of presswork and using various materials.

Across at the road, the fabrication shop engineers are working on producing and assembling wheelbarrows. BullBarrow, part of the TWP group, manufactures 60 different types of wheelbarrows which are distributed to over 250 garden centres across the country including major chains such as Robert Dyas. Here, the products are boxed in house and sent to the customer.

On top of this, BullBarrow has the expertise to offer new and existing customers advice on design, depending on their requirements. Phil said this allows the company to compete with Eastern prices whilst reducing carbon emissions. He said:

“We had a customer who was buying barrows from China, however, he wanted one that could carry slabs. He wanted us to make them, therefore I designed them for him and Bullbarrow manufactured the products. Now he has an order for 150 of them.”

“We are competing with other countries such as China with the import prices due to the fact we can make smaller batches. This is also helpful to the environment as customers don’t have to import the products they are in need of”

Bullbarrow is also bringing in other innovative ways to help the environment by reducing the number of materials that are issued with the products. Instead of having instructions on how to build the barrow on a separate sheet of paper, this information is printed onto the box it comes in.

Manufactured in the same unit are the products for another segment of the TWP Group, Spyrabase - ground anchors. These efficient and contemporary products are twisted into the ground due it’s spiral structure, they are known to be more secure than regular anchors that are pushed into the surface. Spyrabase has created a product suitable for any mobile unit from motorbikes to caravans and plant machinery. These ground anchors are sold to well-known retailers such as Tesco and House of Fraser, as well as other organisations such as the Arley Group, Midland Chandlers and even the Special Air Service (SAS).

The product named the Hurricane is a type of ground anchor named and produced by Spyrabase. The Hurricane Anchors 900 takes up to 1.3 tons to pull it out of the ground, with a breaking strain of 6 to 7 tons. Phil said:

“There is nothing else on the market like the Hurricane ground anchors.”

Keeping with TWP Group’s innovative ways of getting their products on the market in an efficient and environmentally friendly way, there is no difference when it comes to their brand Paterson’s Photographic. Known for their high-quality darkroom equipment and Benbo tripods, Paterson’s has re-entered the studio lighting market with a comprehensive range of continuous lighting units.

Products made for Paterson Photographic also have a reduced level of packaging and tend to come in a single cardboard box, with no other packaging inside, however, is still supported by another recyclable cardboard fixture inside. To help promote the products, they have placed a “you may also like” section on the packaging that highlights products by Paterson related to the item. Phil said:

“All of the Paterson Photographic items are a point of sale product, they go all around the world to different shops from America, China and Australia.”

Paterson is the only company in the world that still produce darkroom products, however, they still work on modern photography products to make them more user-friendly. They recently produced a sturdier LED photography light, which is lighter in weight and smaller in size, Phil said:

“I decided to set myself the challenge of bringing out a new product. What we achieved was the manufacture of an LED Lamp capable of producing more Lumens than the imported lamp but with less heat produced and a lot less power required to run”

All four brands are manufactured and distributed from the company’s facility in Tipton, whilst still having the capacity to introduce new innovative best practices. The TWP group are a great example of Made in member’s who break boundaries and achieve amazing things.

Become a Made in the Midlands member today, click on the link below to find out more.

https://madeinthemidlands.com/benefits

Growth and diversification ensures that the successes roll in for Midland’s pressing firm

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 10/06/2013

Tipton based Threeway Pressings Ltds substantial investment over the last few years has seen the presswork side of their business expand, whilst the company are also reaping the rewards of further investments into new markets through their subsidiary companies, Tisa Mouldings, Bull Barrow, Paterson Photographic and Spyra-base.

Furthermore, during the last few years the companys hard work and expertise have enabled them to win manufacturing business back from China for a major white goods company. Their success have also seen them win a substantial contract with the building trade and expand into supplying the green energy market with products for the solar panel industry.

The capital investment made in new plant and machinery to successfully double capacity, prompted by a steady increase in demand, has, in particular, seen then purchase a new 200 tonne Rhodes press in 2012. The expansion in the companys facilities, to include section rolling, has enabled the in house manufacture of products previously outsourced to China. Modern CNC tube manipulation equipment has been purchased and the companys welding and robotic welding facilities have been increased by a third.

Investment in tooling and machinery for the injection moulding plant has enabled the company to retrieve production that was previously outsourced. Equally, the creation of a new purpose built storage and distribution facility means that stock can be held for customers on a Kanban basis allowing 48 hour delivery.

All-in-all the investment has paved a bright future for Threeway Pressings by doubling productivity, facilitating better stock control, production and improved turn-around times.

Similarly, the firm are delighted by the success of their wheelbarrow subsidiary, Bullbarrow. The company supplies a colourful range of 58 varieties of wheelbarrows, manufactured in the UK, aimed at the gardening, hardware and building industries and distributed through main agents, whilst giving independent garden centres the opportunity to compete. Bullbarrows full range can be viewed at www.bullbarrow.co.uk , with some of their new products being aimed at the equestrian market.

Meanwhile, Paterson Photographic have successfully launched the most powerful and versatile studio light in the soft light market at the Focus Exhibition at the NEC. Commenting on the success, Phil Stanley, Managing Director, said: We are one of the few UK manufacturers at the show who are able to export all over the world and have the products designed and made in the UK.

As a leading UK manufacturer of ground anchors, Spyra-Base, has also rolled out an ongoing programme of investment in new machinery to bring manufacturing into their Midlands base and, in-turn, provide job opportunities for the region.

The company are justifiably proud of their growth and diversification. Managing Director, Phil Stanley added: We are looking to grow our regional opportunities having successfully bought new products to market, but you wont go anywhere else in the Midlands and find such diverse operations as well as a firm that produces and sells its own products as an OEM.

TWP Manufacturing at Groundbreaking Virtual Careers Fair

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 23/03/2021

Organized by the Made in Group, the Made Futures virtual careers week (22nd-26th March) is aimed at jobseekers, graduates and students looking for opportunities in manufacturing. At the forefront of innovation, the exhibition will showcase virtual 3D stands with a series of touchpoints for a ‘life like’ experience and TWP Manufacturing will be part of the groundbreaking experience.

We are just one of many companies exhibiting at the Made Futures Virtual Careers week. Adapting to the times and getting up to speed with the digital era, our stand encapsulates everything you would expect from a physical exhibition. The multiple touchpoints will take visitors to different information available on the stand from ‘about us’, to product/ service brochures and jobs available.

Exhibitors at the interactive virtual exhibition highlight the manufacturing sector’s dedication to overcoming current and ongoing sector challenges. With millions of UK residents losing their jobs, coupled with the existing skills gap in UK manufacturing, we will be available at the Made Futures exhibition to offer our support to jobseekers and find our next employees.

There’s still time, attend the exhibition to visit our stand and to talk directly with a member of our team:

Made Futures Careers Week

TWP Helps Drive UK's Reshoring Mission

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 11/11/2020

Leading manufacturer ThreeWayPressings (TWP), high-quality presswork and injection moulding specialist, has been leading the charge in reshoring business back to the UK. This year alone the business has managed to reshore two product types. On top of that, they have also reshored all of their Spyrabase products back to the UK which was previously sourced in China and Eastern Europe.

Keeping manufacturing in Britain has always been a key element in TWP’s ambitions for the business. In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic Paterson Photographic, part of the TWP group, designed and produced a ball and socket head used for tripods usually sourced from China. The product has done tremendously well in the UK market and has resulted in the firm designing a bigger version.

In another bid to reshore business, the firm designed and manufactured a golf plate product that allows users to line up their shot. TWP’s quick thinking in providing solutions has contributed to the refocused efforts of reshoring business back to the UK.

Reshoring business back to the UK is hugely beneficial for the economy and allows manufacturers to operate more efficiently environmentally.

“It's always good, for manufacturers especially, to look at where we can lower our emissions. Not only would we be putting money back into the UK economy if businesses reshored to the UK, it would also reduce the amount of transport needed to get the goods over,” Phil Stanely, Managing director at TWP Group, explained.

“Things are already changing in society as a whole, as we are having to look at new ways to communicate, using applications like Zoom and Google Hangouts. Combining these efforts, we are definitely capable of lowering emissions,” he continued.

TWP acquired Spyrabase sometime last year and has since aimed to reshore all of its products from further afield. The team have implemented machines and tooling capable of producing the product range in-house, further highlighting their dedication to expanding the market in the UK. By doing this, the firm has more control of processes, batch numbers and lead times.

INJECTING GROWTH

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 23/06/2015

Threeway continues to promote its unique personal approach and innovative problem solving techniques to both its manufacturing capabilities and its brand distribution arm.

Manufacturing continues to be buoyant with recently won orders from the automotive, white goods and contarcting sectors building on an already strong order book.

The added inclusion of an injection moulding facility only three miles away in Wolverhampton has allowed our current and potential new customer base to increase their portfolio with a single supply base.

The injection moulding facility has allowed Threeway to offer not only Injection Moulding but also opened up possibilities for over moulding and blow moulding.

Phil said: Many customers are now approaching Threeway to utilise their extensive manufacturing and tool making knowledge and capability to enable opportunities to become a reality. Following a meeting with Gareth Jones of Incomm at a Made in the midlands event Threeway secured a tool making apprentice.

Joshua Smith joined us in March 2015 as apprentice toolmaker (course details) . He has joined an already busy and experienced tool making team and added some more young blood to the Threeway Team.

Gareth said: Having visited Threeways facility I thought it was outstanding to see such innovation not only in the products, but also the tools and equipment being used, with the company making all their own machinery and redeveloping it to create their unique range of products. We are very happy to be working with a company that shares the same midset and ethos that we have here at In-Comm.

Midlands based manufacturer Threeway Pressings has continued its support of and involvement with Made in the Midlands by exhibiting at the recent MIM exhibition held recently at the GTG Training centre in Wolverhampton.

Rich said: We have always met fantastic people at the MIM events and this has allowed us to enhance our customer and supplier base and also to share our opportunities and problems with likeminded business people.

Phil continued: We have had a lot of support from the Made in the Midlands team with our marketing efforts, and would like to take the opportunity to thank Emily for her tutoring from a social media perspective. We have kick-started our social media campaign on Twitter with Emilys help and look forward to further exploring the digital side of business networking with our future appointments.

Threeway welcome over 100 manufacturers to their premises

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 20/07/2016

The latest Made in the Midlands breakfast networking event hosted by Threeway Pressings, Tipton saw 100 representatives of the Midlands manufacturing sector visit their premises.

Threeway's attendance record comfortably surpassed the previous breakfast event record of 71 attendees. Whilst sections of the government remain out of control, Midlands manufacturers remain passionate about coming together and strengthening their ties within the sector. Breakfast events provide our members with a fantastic opportunity to meet MDs and CEOs of local manufacturing companies with a view to creating new business.

Threeway Pressings are based at their own purpose built facility that extends to three acres. They have well equipped power press shops that have high speed automatic and single action presses of up to 250 tonne, along with the latest servo driven coil feeders. The combination of a very large number of presses with varied capacities, enable Threeway Pressings to undertake a truly comprehensive range of presswork.

With such a large crowd of Midland manufacturers, Threeway Pressings Managing Director, Phil Stanley presented all of his company capabilities to his guests with a compilation video. On social media, guests tweeted out their delight with the event, as Pemberton Engineering said: Superb breakfast networking event @threewaypress this morning. Phil Stanley giving an inspired talk on their products and facilities.

Great to be at @threewaypress today for the @madeinthemids Breakfast Morning. Enjoying it so far. #UKMfg #MiMFamily https://t.co/UdgGVwFOp4
Systems adi Group (@adigroupltd) 21 July 2016

Furthermore, adi Group tweeted: Great to be at @threewaypress today for the @madeinthemids Breakfast Morning. Enjoying it so far. #ukmfg #MiMFamily. One of Made in the Midlands newest members this year, Bracebridge Engineering tweeted: Thanks to @threewaypress for a fantastic breakfast morning today with @madeinthemids #ukmfg.

Additionally, Stanley expressed his delight at welcoming over 100 representatives of the manufacturing sector to his factory, as he explained: It's been fantastic to see so many people come. We would like to thank everyone, as weve had manufacturers from everywhere in the Midlands come and join us. We are overwhelmed with the support weve had today.

The majority of Made in the Midlands members were previously aware of Threeways manufacturing capabilities, yet their breakfast event helped to uncover their other capabilities and products. Threeway have been strengthening the companys own brands of gardening products and photographic darkroom equipment, tripods and studio lighting. The Threeway Group includes: Threeway Pressings, TISA Injection Mouldings Ltd, Bullbarrow, Spyrabase and Brilliant Garden Products.

After uncovering all of these additional products at their breakfast event, Stanley explained: I think people may have been skeptical that we just do press work and injection moulding, but what they didnt know is how we finish it off. They also didnt know that we export all over the world as well. So from that side of the scale, it's been fantastic, it's been very good that people can see what we do.

Prior to hosting such a large amount of people at their premises, the entire Threeway team worked very hard in the days leading up to the event to ensure there was a safe environment for all guests, as Stanley concluded: Credit to our staff, everybody has tucked in and got the place tidy and clean, theyve all got involved and this is not just about myself, Richard Perry and who is here today. It's about everybody in the company, theyve all supported us and got behind us, so it's brilliant.

Please visit our events page to ensure that you dont miss any of our upcoming Breakfast networking events. Our newest events will be hosted by: Manufacturing Technology Centre, RSD Pressings, Filtermist International and Walsall Pressings. If you are interested in hosting a Breakfast event of your own, please contact our Group Events Manager Iwona at: iwona@firstorchard.com

Midland Manufacturing Secured by Threeway

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 09/02/2012

Threeway Pressings have continued their strategy of growth by diversification with the acquisition of the Spyra base brand in May 2011.

Threeway have been involved with Spyra Base products for a number of years supplying many of the company’s ground anchorage and security products for distribution into a range of diverse markets.

Over the past few years Threeway has worked closely and invested a six figure sum into product innovation and improvement, tooling, machinery and marketing to enhance and support Spyra base which was followed by the recent outright purchase of the niche product brand.

Threeway believe the various applications possible with the product range together with the cross selling opportunities available from its current manufacturing and distribution of the Bullbarrow wheelbarrow range into 800 garden centres and building and hardware merchants nation wide amount to a significant opportunity for growth.Bullbarrow also supplies ‘Blue chip’ retailers such as The Range and Tesco’s.

“Application wise the product is a great fit for a whole range of different markets and the products have also passed military trials” said Richard Perry.

Opportunities outside the garden centre market include addressing the problems of theft of high value items such as boats, motorbikes, caravans and large plant and machinery and the ability for the product to anchor items such as narrow boats, marquees, inflatable buildings and even light aircraft thereby assisting businesses with any safety issues.

Recent use of Spyra base includes the royal agricultural show in securing temporary seating to the grand ring. The 4000 seating ring was secured by 67 hurricane anchors each taking only 1 minute to insert.

The Spyra base product range is incredibly simple screw in , screw out with manual drivers available for relevant products and even a hydraulic insertion tool is available to assist with large multiple anchorage events.

“Previously the company sourced some of its product range from the Far East and Eastern Europe, however with escalating shipping costs, logistical problems and storage issues this became uneconomical.

Threeway has flipped this situation on its head with investment in purpose built machinery and tooling to wind both the standard spirals and the flat blade spirals, in economical short batches, all automatically cut to various lengths” Said Phil Stanley

“Everything is interchangeable to reduce variation in production and dramatically improve efficiency thereby reducing lead times and alleviating storage problems. The entire process is controlled using local suppliers to ensure adherence to strict quality standards. The product will now be entirely “Made in the Midlands””.

Perfect timing for LCL and Paterson Photography

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 24/07/2017

From the schoolroom to the Boardroom (TWP)

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 05/03/2021

TWP Manufacturing is one of the leading manufacturers in the UK, with the most diverse range of products, has always championed apprenticeships and provides young people with the opportunity to get their teeth into manufacturing.

Having been established over 25 years, TWP has seen over 15 young people join, stay, leave and move on to other opportunities within the business. This is a proud badge to wear for the business as it has given some great companies some fantastic employees.

One of the company’s most successful apprentices started 24 years ago from Dudley college. He still currently works with the company and is now Works Manager.

Phil Stanley, Managing Director at TWP said:

“Having completed his NVQ Level 3, it was always obvious to me that the potential for this young person was able to be utilized a lot further in other areas of the business. This only came about because of his determination to succeed, his ethic to work, his willingness to learn and take directions and also to be a team player within the company.”

His role is now supporting the office staff on the MRP system, continuous improvement in quality, organizing production on the shop floor in the press shop, CNC shop, welding shop, fabrication shop as well as now, the tool room. This shows a shining example of how anyone can make a difference in an SME and become one of the key players within the business.

Phil concluded:

“My advice to anyone getting into the industry is to keep talking to your employer as 9 times out of 10 we have been there and done it and followed the same struggles. We understand it can be tiring and hard to get up some mornings but take on every challenge and for every task, you are given, no matter how big or small, endeavour to do it to the best of your ability. If you are unclear about what you have been asked to do, it is better to ask a few times and get it clear in your head from the start until you are sure you know what to do.”

“The world of manufacturing is one of the most advanced and dynamic areas of industry, with so many new technologies and diverse areas for people to go into. This has to be one of the most exciting times to get involved in manufacturing companies.”

Made Futures was created to encourage people to get jobs in manufacturing, in support of those who have lost their jobs over the course of the 2020 pandemic. There's still time to sign up and be part of the exhibition by registering here.

TWP Finds Latest Employees Through Made Futures and Saves Thousands

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 19/08/2021

Leading pressings manufacturer Threeway Pressings (TWP), based in Tipton, has been connecting directly with potential candidates for job opportunities thanks to the Made Futures platform. As a result Phil Stanley, Managing Director of TWP, has filled two job vacancies both being Press Setting Operators. Unlike employing through a recruitment agency, which can be costly, the firm was able to see all the information of candidates and offer the roles to local people.

The start of 2021 saw a massive influx of UK residents losing their jobs due to challenges brought on by the pandemic. In fact, as we go further into the year The Bank of England expects the unemployment rate to reach around 5.5%.

Coupled with the prominent skills gap in the UK Manufacturing and Engineering sector, The Made in Group - a trade association challenging the erosion of British Industry, showcased its 400+ manufacturers and their career opportunities through an online jobs boards and virtual exhibition. This saw over 1,500 people looking for roles in the Midlands and Yorkshire area sign up and interact directly with manufacturers to find out more about the roles available, as well as attend one of a kind seminars with the exhibiting manufacturers.

The online exhibition was hosted from 22nd-26th March, however the madefutures.com jobs board is still being utilised by members who want to interact directly with candidates suitable for the role. This was certainly the case for TWP as they advertised two vacancies and managed to fill both roles with people from the local area. As well as having control over what candidates they would like to interact with, Phil also says that recruiting through Made Futures has saved him around £3,000-£4,000:

“It was great to be able to talk directly with potential candidates, as the Made Futures project targeted those looking for manufacturing roles and therefore around 78 people applied for the operator roles. We would have never seen this many applicants if we had gone down the usual route with a recruitment agency and we have managed to save thousands by utilising Made Futures instead.”

Phil also mentioned that the two operators who were employed by TWP through Made Futures have blended into the business very well and are enjoying their new roles.

Paterson the first to produce and supply LED lights in the UK

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 21/10/2019

Tipton based Made in the Midlands members Paterson Photographic, part of the TWP Group is the first company in the UK to manufacture an LED lamp for both Professional and Amateur photographers.

Paterson is renowned for its high-quality traditional Darkroom film processing hardware which, for many years, has supplied a global market place of schools, colleges, professional photographers and amateur enthusiasts.

The design and production of the LED studio lighting lamp were to provide an alternative to the far eastern manufactured fluorescent lamps which were inherently unreliable, fragile and cumbersome due to their size.

In an interview at the Photography show , at the NEC, Managing Director Phil Stanley set himself a challenge to create a more reliable and efficient lamp using LED bulbs.

“This time last year I decided to set myself the challenge of bringing a new product to the show. What we achieved was the manufacture of an LED Lamp capable of producing more Lumens than the imported lamp but with less heat produced and a lot less power required to run”

The LED lamp is also much smaller than its competitors and less fragile as the casing is produced in tough plastic which will not shatter if dropped or mishandled.

Phil is very excited about the opportunities this new lamp will bring to Paterson as it will complement the darkroom hardware and BENBO Tripods already distributed into the global photography marketplace.

“It is changing the perception that Paterson is just a producer of darkroom equipment, we can now offer products for the whole demographic of the photography industry from young to old and from analogue to digital”

FIRM’S BULLSEYE

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 12/05/2015

Tipton based manufacturer Threeway Pressings are set for another fantastic year after further investment and a new approach to branding.

Threeways Director Phil Stanley said: We are market leader in press components and injection mouldings and one of the few companies to offer a one stop manufacturing service to all our customers. This has given us the ability to develop our brands and give us bolt on to our core business.

Based on Malthouse Road, Threeway have invested in shop floor improvements, as well as employing a new Sales & Marketing Assistant to further promote their range of brands.

Known for their innovative approach Threeway have consistently delivered exceptional quality and creative design across all of their brands, and on many occasions have won work back from the Far East, something they are extremely proud of. Phil continues: We have managed to bring all the manufacturing back from China on the SpyraBase products and have developed the tools and machines to produce the components in house. The tube manipulation and welding section has allowed us to manufacture all the range of products for Bull Barrow, and all the injection moulded components are also made on site giving us the opportunity to offer this service to our customers.

Hannah Boden joined the company in 2014 as Sales & Marketing Assistant and has already implemented strategies to further promote the brands, including social media campaigns and researching up coming trade shows.

Phil said: We decided to bring in someone young and creative like Hannah to give the company a boost on the marketing side. With management taking a hands on approach to the business it left very little resource for us to focus on promoting ourselves, so it will be exciting to see the results that Hannah brings.

Threeway Pressings has three sub-brands, Bull Barrow, Paterson Photographic and Spyra-Base.

For Spyra-Base, the innovative ground anchor solution, all investment is now complete with machinery on site and a new website allowing full traceability through the irms ISO 9000 accreditation. Spyra-Base has stock held for their products, allowing a 2-day turnaround, and a number of mainstream DIY outlets are also distributing the products. Through re-engineering, Spyra-Base products have now been produced faster and lighter than before, making it easier to get to the customer, easier to use, cheaper to make but with the same high quality.

Bull Barrow are market leaders in the manufacture of wheelbarrows for the gardening, hardware and building industries. With over 50 varieties of wheelbarrows and other gardening accessories, all completely bespoke to match the customers needs, Bull Barrow has secured on-going contracts with Tesco, Shedstore and a number of online retailers.

Paterson Photographic is best known for its high quality darkroom equipment and all products are moulded and assembled in house then packet and dispatched from Kan Ban stock the same day.

Paterson exports to over 50 countries and offers a complete photography solution with their range covering tripods, studio lighting and camera accessories.

Phil concludes: This has been an incredible journey to change the mind set from manufacturer to dealing with large retail companies and having to look at the way we market our brands. Would I take this path again with being able to experience having our inished products being sold all over the world and in to the major retailers in the UK? The answer is definitely Yes!

Bullbarrow preparing to exhibit at BBC Gardeners' World Live 2017

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 07/06/2017

After a successful show last year Bullbarrow will be returning to BBC Gardeners' World Live. Following significant growth over the last 12 months when else would be a better time to reveal the new websites and company branding.

Bullbarrow Products are the market leader in the manufacture and supply of wheelbarrows for the gardening, hardware and building industries. The innovative range of more than 50 varieties of wheelbarrows are all manufactured in our UK based premises, enabling us to provide unrivalled bespoke products to match our customers needs.

Once again Bullbarrow have donated 50 wheelbarrows to schools in and around the local area. Director of Bullbarrow Phil Stanley said Its a pleasure to help the local schools, as a company we feel that doing your part for the community is something most firms should try and do. The 50 barrows will be on show on Picnic Hill all week, this is a great chance so see the durability of the Bullbarrow range.

Bullbarrow will be displaying their full range of barrows including all seven colours, they will also be displaying products from sister companies Spyrabase; manufactures of ground anchors and Brilliant Garden Products; distributors of garden tools. You will be able to see all these products on stand G380.

Bullbarrow have recently been through a rebrand, this will also be the launch of their new website (www.bullbarrow.co.uk). As technology is moving on it was pivotal they improved their online presence, this was done by reviewing their current website which is seen to be out dated. Richard Perry, Director said A more stylish and future proof website is what was needed in order for us to modernise our brand and give a fresh approach as we aim to hit our goals and end 2017 on a high! The new site will have the latest e-commerce technology enabling a customer friendly website on their smart phone, this will help fur fill our drop ship potential.

TWP proves UK manufacturing strength

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 07/05/2020

Three Way Pressings (TWP), based in Tipton, has helped a customer reshore business from China to the UK by helping design and produce a golf plate product.

The Midlands manufacturing firm has designed and is producing a golf product which enables users to line up their shot. With disruptions in the supply chain, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses have struggled to purchase goods from overseas countries such as China and India. Enabling UK businesses to showcase their capabilities and talent as customers look closer to home.

Manufacturers like TWP, a member of Made in the Midlands, are showing their customers that they can get quality and cost-efficient products here in the UK. Phil Stanley, Managing Director at Three Way Pressings, designed the golf plate and already has an order for 500 of them.

Talking about how this could not only help UK manufacturers to thrive by businesses purchasing more goods in the UK, Phil mentioned that this will have a great impact on the environment if businesses did this where they could;

“It’s always good, for manufacturers especially, to look at where we can lower our emissions. Not only would we be putting money back into the UK economy if more business was reshored in the UK, it would also reduce the amount of transport needed to get these goods over.

Things are already changing in society as a whole, as we are having to look at new ways to communicate, using applications like Zoom and Google Hangouts. Combining these efforts, we are definitely capable of lowering emissions.”

However, this isn't the first time the business has managed to reshore business back to the UK due to their array of capabilities. Back in March Paterson Photographic, part of the TWP group, designed and produced a ball and socket head used for photography tripods which were originally produced in China. The company now has a new order for 200 of them, they are also designing a bigger version.

Threeway Pressings specialises in the design and manufacture of precision pressings in ferrous and non-ferrous materials.

If TWP could help you, get in touch with them today by heading to their microsite https://twpmanufacturing.madeinthemidlands.com/.

TWP invest in new CNC machines to increase production processes

TWP Manufacturing Ltd — 07/11/2019

Tipton based company and Made in the Midlands member TWP manufacturing has now made a six-figure investment in installing six CNC machines to allow it to carry out the work in-house.

The project, which was supported with advice from accounting and consultancy firm Crowe in Oldbury, and has been so successful that the company is now ordering a seventh machine to be installed next year.

Established in 1995, TWP provides pressings, mouldings and assemblies as a sub-contracter to a range of companies from sectors including automotive, construction, electrical and white goods through to high profile leisure and retail brands.

Johnathan Dudley, national head of manufacturing at Crowe, said:

“TWP had reached a point where it wanted to take back control of costs and bring the margin back in-house in order to maintain its competitive edge.”

“The decision to bring back the manufacturing of a large range of turned parts from Singapore is part of a wide-ranging review of all sub-contracted work that TWP puts out to other manufacturers.

“At Crowe, we are very hands-on with our advice and have been working alongside Phil Stanley and Richard Perry for many years, as we have with many of our manufacturing clients in the wider West Midlands and nationally.”

Crowe has been a long term partner with TWP Manufacturing and has advised directors Phil Stanley and Richard Perry on a wide range of issues.

TWP manufacturing director Phil Stanley said that they had recognised the need to take more control of processes, batch numbers and lead times and the best solution was to bring many of the processes in-house.

He added:

“We are constantly seeking to be more proactive in our relationships with our customers and to that end we need to be constantly innovating and looking at what we can do better, quicker and more competitively in a market that is fast changing all the time.”

Finance director Richard Perry said:

“Control of costs and protection and improvement in our margins is at the heart of the current review and is an ongoing process that will drive our competitiveness in all the markets we serve."

TWP Manufacturing is at the hub of a range of brands that the company manufactures including Bullbarrow Products, Spyrabase, Paterson Photographic and Benbo.

The Midlands office of Crowe runs the highly successful Manufacturing Business Network which next meets at Black Country House, Round Green Road, Oldbury, on Wednesday 6 November.

Ninder Johal will lead a discussion the launch of 5G services and the implications for business. Johal was recently appointed a non-executive director of West Midlands 5G Ltd, a new organisation set up to deliver the UK’s first region-wide 5G testbed.