Bristol-based automotive parts firm Sanoh UK Manufacturing has celebrated 25 years of trading at its Avonmouth site.
The Japanese-owned firm, which makes brake and fuel lines for major car manufacturers, opened its factory off Fourth Way in December 1992 – initially to supply Honda’s then new car plant in Swindon.
It has since expanded into two more buildings on the site as well as sister plants in Swindon and Sunderland, from where it supplies Nissan’s giant car plant.
It also now manufactures for Jaguar Land Rover and, with a workforce of more than 330 is now one of the largest employers in the area.
Having survived two recessions during those 25 years, Sanoh UK is now looking forward to the major changes in automotive technology, including the drive towards electric and hybrid vehicles as well as autonomous vehicles and global sourcing.
In a message to staff Sanoh UK managing director Paul Davis said: “Sanoh UK is one of the leading subsidiaries in the wider Sanoh family. We have achieved this by smart planning, good people and the support of our customers, staff and suppliers.
“As a successful British company, we are well-placed to continue to grow and flourish over the next 25 years. None of us know for certain what the future will bring, but we will ensure that we are prepared for all eventualities.”
Paul also thanked all employees past and present for their hard work and commitment in building the business while a message from Sanoh Industrial president Dr Genya Takeda in Japan congratulated the team on the milestone.
Long-serving staff member Steve Bird, who has been with company since day one, said: “I have been at Sanoh all my professional life. It has been a pleasure to watch the company develop and grow and to be able to say ‘I have been a part of what we have created’.”
Sanoh UK Manufacturing has its roots in Bristol Bending Services, a long-established vehicle parts manufacturer in the Avonmouth during the 1980s and early 1990s.
Originally set up as a joint venture with Sanoh Japan, it was fully acquired by Sanoh Industrial in the mid-2000s.
Pictured: The day shift at Sanoh’s Northside Plant in Avonmouth
