Pattern Fasteners Ltd, a precision components manufacturer based in Tividale, Oldbury, has transformed its workplace facilities thanks to support from our Business Development Coordinator, Helen Peach.
The business secured a grant that enabled the creation of a dedicated inspection department, alongside major refurbishments to its welcome lobby, kitchen, toilets and office space. These improvements have enhanced the working environment for staff and created a more professional and welcoming setting for visiting clients.
Background
Pattern Fasteners Ltd specialises in the manufacture of high-quality precision components. Since acquiring their current premises in 2018, the business has seen significant growth, focusing primarily on investment in equipment and machinery to meet increasing customer demand.
While the business expanded operationally, its internal facilities lagged behind. Areas such as the canteen, toilets and office space were dated and lacked the capacity to support the growing team. Additionally, the company identified a need for a dedicated inspection area to meet rising customer expectations and maintain high standards of quality assurance.
Challenges
As the team at Pattern Fasteners grew, it became clear that their facilities no longer met the needs of a modern and expanding business. Key challenges included:
- A tired and outdated welcome area.
- Limited kitchen space with outdated equipment and poor seating.
- Worn-out toilet facilities with no personal storage for staff.
- An overcrowded office space lacking adequate desk space and natural light.
- No dedicated area to house inspection equipment or showcase quality processes to customers.
These issues impacted staff morale, recruitment and the ability to host customers confidently.
The Solution
With our help, Pattern Fasteners was able to complete an ambitious refurbishment project in three phases.
The first phase focused on internal improvements that would benefit the team most, directly refurbishing the kitchen and toilet areas and adding lockers for personal belongings.
The second phase saw the creation of a new welcome lobby and a purpose-built inspection room. This inspection space now allows the team to carry out rigorous testing and demonstrate quality assurance processes to customers.
Finally, the company completed the refurbishment of its office, creating a bright workspace that better supports the growing team.
Results
The impact of the refurbishment has been transformative for both employees and customers. Key outcomes include:
- Significantly improved kitchen facilities, encouraging more staff to take proper breaks away from workspaces.
- A professional, smart welcome area that makes a great impression on visiting clients.
- A lighter, more efficient office space with improved working conditions.
- The introduction of a fully equipped inspection room.
- Boosted team morale and a more positive workplace culture.
- Improved recruitment potential, thanks to a more attractive working environment.
These changes have made a real difference in day-to-day operations and improved the company’s professional image.
Testimonial
Becky Beddoes, HR Manager from Pattern Fasteners Ltd said:
“The support from Sandwell’s Business Growth Team has been instrumental in our ability to provide better working conditions for our growing team. Over the past eight years, we’ve built a strong reputation and loyal customer base, but our facilities weren’t keeping up with that progress.
The grant support we received from Helen and the team allowed us to create a space we’re proud to show off to customers, while also addressing the practical needs of our expanding workforce. The creation of our inspection department, in particular, enables us to work with larger clients and explore new markets.”
Looking Ahead
The investment has laid the groundwork for continued growth. Pattern Fasteners now plans to build on the success of its inspection department by investing in advanced measuring equipment to further enhance the precision and capabilities of its manufacturing facility.
The support provided has helped Pattern Fasteners create a modern and productive workplace that reflects the company’s commitment to quality and its people. The changes have not only addressed long standing challenges but also positioned the business for future growth.
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