Another MP puts day out on plastic

The British Plastics Federation’s (BPF) campaign to promote the strategic manufacturing importance of the UK plastics industry has snared another parliamentarian.

Andrew Jones, the MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has visited the Knaresborough headquarters of BNL, a manufacturer of specialist plastic bearings and assemblies.

Derek Mansfield, CEO, and Mark Watkins, EMEA sales manager, presented an overview of the company and the challenges and opportunities faced by BNL in the current business climate.

In recent months BNL, which exports more than 90% of its output, has seen some key contract successes in Asia and a growing interest in their technology from the European automotive industry. However, while these opportunities mean exciting times for BNL, there are challenges to be faced in order to sustain growth and innovation, according to the firm.

“The key challenges for our industry are the accessibility of investment funding and maintaining our key manufacturing skills,” said Mansfield. “Our ability to develop and innovate relies on investment and growth for our business, as well as our customers’ businesses.

“The current economic situation is making this a challenge for us all. Another issue is the employment of a workforce with the correct skills, which in our experience is being hampered by transport access and high fuel costs, plus the bureaucracy associated with developing apprenticeships.”

Jones commented: “It’s vital that companies like BNL are able to find employees with the right skills to help their business grow. This is important because without business growth the number of jobs – particularly for young people – will be limited.”

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