New Approach to Streamlined Processes Means Positive Growth for NORMA UK

Building on success by creating the right environment for a growing business, is one of the key features behind NORMA UK’s continued growth.

Moving in to purpose built facilities in Weber Road, at Greenham Business Park, has helped the company to flourish.

The business has more than 30 years’ experience in the UK. The company developed as part of the international NORMA Group and is a leading manufacturer and distributor of profile clamps, hose clamps, quick connectors, fluid systems and plastic connectors.

It was the decision to move to specially designed premises at Greenham Business Park that helped them channel their focus for business adaptation.

During the last two years the company has taken a strategic approach and a 360° view of all processes.

The team, led by MD Mark Burnett, put together a plan on how to transform production. The first step was to reconfigure the layout of the traditional production floor.

As Mark explained, NORMA UK’s production operations have been transformed. He said: “We have a great manufacturing facility here at Newbury, and this has become a benchmark for the industry.”

One of the main problems for any manufacturing business is down time for maintenance and when to do it. The company was finding that in order to meet high demand, they were already working through weekends.

Therefore the production area was reorganised area by area. Machines were moved on a Friday night, and prepped on a Saturday. Then the maintenance crew took over on Sunday, before moving it back into place.

Another key feature, throughout this 18 month transformation, is the improved communication between management and staff. Staff are asked for their input and thoughts, and regular stand up round tables are used to make sure everyone is aware of who is doing what, and the company’s goals.

Mark attributes good communication with the positive atmosphere that has developed in the company over the last few years.

Mark said: “Over three years, we have increased our sales by around 50%.”

Rupert Holtby, Estates Manager for Greenham Business Park, the Trust's main asset, said: “Working with NORMA UK to help create their bespoke facilities was an exciting process, and watching them achieve success after success underlines the purpose of Greenham Business Park. We want business to grow, and we can help them do that.

“There is so much that we can offer new, as well as established, companies. Looking at NORMA UK as a test case, this year alone they will manufacture more than five million products, with the aim of producing 11 million by 2020. We will be here to help them every step of their journey.”