There have been many challenges in the past few years and they continue today. But as we pass the half way stage of 2022, here at Crabb Engineering, we are experiencing the busiest time in our history. Our order book is very healthy, with a mix of scheduled and small batch work, until the end of August leading into September, on some machines.
In no small part, this is down to the way we have worked, in partnership, for many years with our customers and wherever possible implementing order scheduling and Kanban systems to ensure shorter delivery times from ‘stock’ items. The cost advantages of larger purchase orders, versus ‘spot-buying' are another benefit of having stock on the shelf. We have some long-standing relationships with loyal customers and with this system being enjoyed by more and more of them, our clients are assured that they are getting the best quality, for the best price and on time!
“We continue to invest and look to the future and with the acquisition of a small engineering company in Wrexham; it will increase our capacity by 20%. With more skilled staff set to join in the coming weeks and another capital investment, set to be over £130K, of a brand new 5-axis machining centre is also due before the end of July, we feel we are in a very strong position”, says James Brewerton – Crabb Engineering MD.
Joshua Fox – Production Director added, “We have been working flat-out for the past few months and have not only continued our 24hr, 3-shift pattern, but we have had some people overlapping their shifts, to maximise production efficiencies and we are working weekends to help reduce the current lead-times”.
Both agreed, as the old saying goes “It’s better to be looking at work, than looking for it!”
Plans are also afoot to expand the current facility in Flint, and whilst that will be in the medium-to-long term “It shows our commitment to the future, to Crabb Engineering Ltd and of course, to our hard-working and loyal staff.” Testament to this is the distribution of profits, through a bonus scheme that “Rewards all our staff for their efforts”, said Josh. “Whilst we continue to invest in the future, we also continue to do everything we can to ensure all team members are made to feel they are appreciated”. We pride ourselves on the calibre of our staff and actively encourage personal growth and have 4 apprentices at the factory, who attend engineering college, as part of their development and our growth and succession planning.
Both Directors have an ‘open door’ policy and welcome input and suggestions from all team members, to help them improve efficiencies, quality and levels of customer service.
Our collaborative approach with customer projects and ‘hands-on’ style of management, is another way we believe we are more than just another subcontractor.
Find out more about Crabb Engineering Ltd on their member profile page here
Member-created content 1 year ago | From members