Engineering & Assembly Chapter

Engineering & Assembly Chapter April 2019

Engineering & Assembly Chapter

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Contents

1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 1

2. A Framework for Identifying Growth Industries in the Sector ............................................................. 4

3. Engineering & Assembly Sector Specialisms ...................................................................................... 7

4. Business Stock ....................................................................................................................................... 8

5. Labour Market ....................................................................................................................................... 11

6. Sub-Sectors .......................................................................................................................................... 12

7. Common themes and emerging priorities… ....................................................................................... 26

Appendices ............................................................................................................................................... 27


1

1. Introduction

Definition

Engineering refers to the branch of science and technology primarily

concerned with the design, manufacture and use of components, machines

and structures. Assembly is the process of combining manufactured parts

using advanced processes to form a completed product of higher value.

Productivity Transition Aims

Sector Overview

Engineering & Assembly is responsible for a workforce of almost 1 million people in

England employed across 62,000 VAT-registered businesses. The sector was worth

an estimated £69.1 billion in 2017, reporting consistent annual growth since 2013.

Figure 1 illustrates the steady rise in the ‘real’ adjusted value (at 2016 prices) of the

Engineering & Assembly sector for England since 2009. Locally, the sector accounts

for over 25,000 jobs and represents 6.1% of total employment across the Humber

sub-region. Only Lancashire LEP (6.7%) and the North East LEP (6.4%) have a

greater concentration of employment within this sector across the Northern

Powerhouse.

Figure 1: Engineering & Assembly England chained volume measures in 2016 £, 2007-

2017

Source: Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2018


2

The local definition of ‘Engineering & Assembly’ for the purposes of the Humber Local

Industry Strategy (LIS) is provided in Appendix A and includes the less energy-intensive

production processes within the manufacturing sector. The manufacture of wood; furniture;

metal products; electrical equipment; machinery; motor vehicles and transport equipment

are broadly included within this classification, which collectively are generally better

represented in the north of England compared to the national average.

Comparative advantage

The Humber sub-region demonstrates significant overall strength in the Engineering &

Assembly sector based on employment base. A definition used for Location Quotients

(LQ) in this report is included in Appendix B.

Figure 2: Comparative advantage in Engineering & Assembly across the Humber (2017)

Source: Derived from Humber LIS sector definition and Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES), 2018

Employment in the Engineering & Assembly sector is most strongly represented in the

East Riding of Yorkshire and Kingston upon Hull. Each local authority has individual

specialisms in specific industries, but collectively over one-fifth of total employment in the

sector (21.6%) across the region is located within the Humber sub-region.

Figure 3: Engineering & Assembly Sector Overview

Geography Employment % of total

employment

Location

Quotient

East Riding of Yorkshire 9,500 7.5% 2.00

Kingston upon Hull 9,000 6.7% 1.80

North East Lincolnshire 1,875 2.7% 0.72

North Lincolnshire 4,750 6.3% 1.70

Humber 25,125 6.2% 1.66

Yorkshire & The Humber 116,500 4.7% 1.27

England 992,000 3.7% -

Source: BRES, 2017. Humber figures calculated from combined total of authorities and BRES baseline employment

Humber

1.66 England

1.00

Y&H

1.27


3

Employment base

The map below illustrates the employment base concentrations within the Engineering &

Assembly across the Humber. Key locations for major employers include Hedon Road

(Hull); Carnaby Industrial Estate; Cottingham; Brough; and Howdendyke on the north

bank, and Barton upon Humber and Normanby Enterprise Park, near Scunthorpe on the

south bank of the Humber.

Figure 4: Engineering & Assembly employment concentrations across the Humber


4

2. A Framework for

Identifying Growth

Industries in the Sector

This section introduces a simple framework to analyse the relationship between

employment change and sector specialisms (quantified as a Location Quotient, LQ) within

Engineering & Assembly, which accounts for 25,000 jobs across the Humber. Each

industry within the sector is categorised as one of four types in Figure 5 below.

Figure 5: Shift in employment and specialisms across the Humber (2010-2017)



5

The table below sets out a definition to determine growth and mature industries within the

sector.

Quadrant (category) Definition

Shrinking LQ and decreasing

employment

Fall in employment by at least 1.0% of

sector

Shrinking LQ and increasing employment Over 0.75 LQ;

Total employment at least 1.0% of sector Growing LQ and decreasing employment

Growing LQ and growing employment Rise in employment by at least 1.0% of

sector

This definition was applied to employment statistics published by the Office for National

Statistics (ONS) in the Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES) to identify the

industries in Figure 6 below. Collectively these ‘mature’ and ‘growth’ industries account for

two-thirds of employment within the Engineering & Assembly sector.

Figure 6: Growth and mature industries across the Humber (2010-2017)

Growth engineering industries

31 Furniture

16 Wood & wood products

25.1 Structural metals products

25.6 Treatment & coating of metals, machinery

28.11 Engines & turbines, except aircraft, vehicles &

cycles

25.99 Other fabricated metal products

28.9 Other special-purpose machinery

Mature engineering industries

29 Motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers

30 Other transport equipment

28.2 Other general-purpose machinery

25.21 Central heating radiators and boilers


Growth engineering sectors account for an additional 2,630 jobs across the Humber in

2017 compared to 2010, which represents growth of 37.4% over the period. The

manufacture of wood products (16) and engines & turbines (28.11) in particular have

bucked the national trend, supporting a further 2,600 jobs.

Conversely, the manufacture of motor vehicles reported a minor decrease in employment

compared to strong growth nationally (up to 2017), though it should be noted that this

definition accounts for the caravan industry locally and tends to exhibit vastly different

characteristics from the motor industry overall.


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Figure 7: Employment change in growth engineering industries (2010-2017)


The graph below illustrates the steady increase in the (balanced) regional gross value

added current price estimates for mature and growth industries within Engineering &

Assembly.

Figure 8: Regional GVA (Balanced) for mature and growth industries, 2010-2017

Source: Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2018


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3. Engineering & Assembly Sector Specialisms

Manufacture of wood & wood products - includes the manufacture of timber, plywood, veneers,

wooden containers, wooden flooring, trusses, and prefabricated wooden buildings.

Manufacture of fabricated metal products - includes the manufacture of ‘pure’ metal products

(such as parts, containers and structures), usually with a static, immovable function.

Manufacture of machinery & equipment - includes the manufacture of machinery that act

independently on materials mechanically, thermally, perform operations or apply force.

Manufacture of motor vehicles & trailers - includes the manufacture of motor vehicles for

transporting passengers or freight, in addition to parts and accessories.

Manufacture of furniture - includes the design and manufacture of furniture and related products

of any material except stone, concrete and ceramic.

Source: UK Standard Industrial Classification of Economic Activities 2007, Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2009

Humber

1.42

Humber

1.33

Humber

4.37

Humber

3.96

Humber

1.91

ENG

1.00

Y&H

1.40

ENG

1.00

Y&H

1.76

ENG

1.00

Y&H

1.76

ENG

1.00 Y&H 0.74

ENG

1.00

Y&H

2.60


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4. Business Stock

Business stock

The map below shows the density of Engineering & Assembly businesses by Middle Super

Output Area (MSOA), a statistical geography developed by the Office for National

Statistics (ONS).

Figure 9: Engineering & Assembly business stock concentration across the Humber

This map shows the significant concentration of businesses on the north bank of the

Humber, principally along the industrial estates that flank the A63 in Kingston upon Hull.

This is traditionally an area of industrial production and the map highlights that Engineering

& Assembly retains a strong presence in these locations. There are also concentrations

located on former airfield sites across parts of the Yorkshire Wolds and industrial estates

to the north of both Scunthorpe and Grimsby.


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Figure 10: Engineering & Assembly VAT-registered business stock by size band

Geography Total Number of employees

Micro

(0-9)

Small

(10-49)

Medium

(50-249)

Large

(0-9)

East Riding of Yorkshire 450 345 (76.7%) 75 (16.7%) 20 (4.4%) 5 (1.1%)

Kingston upon Hull 340 200 (58.8%) 110 (32.4%) 20 (5.9%) 5 (1.5%)

North East Lincolnshire 170 135 (79.4%) 30 (17.6%) 5 (2.9%) 0 (0.0%)

North Lincolnshire 200 200 (77.5%) 155 (17.5%) 5 (2.5%) 5 (2.5%)

Humber 1,165 840 (72.1%) 255 (21.9%) 55 (4.7%) 15 (1.3%)

Yorkshire & The Humber 6,830 4,960 (72.6%) 1,430 (20.9%) 385 (5.6%) 55 (0.8%)

England 62,285 47,705 (76.6%) 11,285

(18.1%)

2,875 (4.6%) 420 (0.7%)

Source: IDBR, 2018. Figures may not sum due to rounding.

The table above shows the breakdown of VAT-registered businesses by size. Overall, the

proportion of small, medium-sized and large businesses are better represented across the

Humber than the national average, particularly in Kingston upon Hull. Figure 11 below

illustrates the fluctuating change in the number of businesses in the sector between 2010

and 2018, though total stock was 3.3% lower in 2018 despite strong employment growth

over the period.

Figure 11: Engineering & Assembly VAT-registered business stock (2010-2018)

Source: IDBR, 2018


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Figure 12: Largest local employers operating within the Engineering & Assembly sector

Fenner Group

Hessle

Machining

(25620)

Wren Kitchens

Barton-Upon-Humber

Manufacture of other furniture

(31090)

Swift Group

Cottingham

Manufacture of caravans

(29203)

Willerby Limited

Hull

Manufacture of caravans (29203)

Siemens Gamesa Renewables

Hull

Manufacture of engines/turbines

(28110)

Howden Joinery Group

Howden

Manufacture and retail of

furniture (31090)

Ideal Boilers

Hessle

Manufacture of boilers

(25210)

Lebus Upholstery

Scunthorpe

Manufacture of other furniture

(31090)

ABI (UK)

Beverley

Manufacture of leisure homes

(32900)

JZ Flowers

North Cave

Packaging of fresh flowers

(32990)

Walker Modular Limited

Hull

Manufacture of modular bathroom

pods (32990)

Paneltex Limited

Hessle

Manufacture of relocatable cold

units (29201)


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5. Labour Market

A regional scan of jobs advertised in the Humber from February 2018 to February 2019

revealed that over 46,500 jobs were advertised in the area. Of these advertised roles, five

key areas have been identified with links to the engineering and assembly sector, as

shown in the table below.

Figure 14: Regional scan of job roles advertised linked to engineering and assembly sector

Job role advertised Number of jobs listed

Managers and proprietors in other services 850

Engineering technicians 774

Science, engineering and production technicians 655

Engineering professionals 461

Production managers and directors in manufacturing 455

Source: Labour Insight, February 2019

Within the 2,800 engineering jobs advertised in the Humber area, mechanical engineer is

the most commonly advertised with over 400 postings. Other relevant categories of role

include maintenance, repair and installation, though the majority of jobs posted within this

category are linked to automotive services. However, 473 maintenance technicians were

advertised, linking to the sector.

Log On Move On (LOMO) is a portal for 14 to 16 year olds in education institutions to

access and apply for further education courses. When considered in the context of

engineering and assembly, the system suggests that there were 27 providers, offering 221

courses. The portal picked up 453 applicants to these courses, however, applicants can

apply for courses in a number of different way and as a consequence the result this is not

an accurate reflection of application numbers. Additionally, the system covers only the

north bank authorities of Hull and East Riding and not all schools in these areas use the

system. However, this information can begin to shape understanding of skills provision in

the sector.

The three top courses for applications were a level 3 engineering course at Hull College,

BTEC level 3 extended diploma in engineering at Wilberforce College and level 2

certificate in engineering at Hull College. The courses that generate the greatest interest

within the sector through LOMO are also Hull based with two qualifications in engineering

and one in electrical maintenance. However, this does not prove that take-up of these

courses is sufficient to meet the demands of the industry.


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6. Sub-Sectors

Manufacture of wood & wood products

210 VAT-registered businesses; 3,500 jobs; Humber LQ 3.96

Strong representation in: Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, North

Lincolnshire

Specialisms: Manufacture of other builders' carpentry and joinery

Sector overview

The manufacture of wood and wood products is a growing industry. As house building increases,

timber products are required for house building, domestic furniture and domestic structures.1 Wood

can be grown, harvested and milled in the UK, however, the majority of the nation’s wood is

imported from Scandinavia and the Baltic States.2

Market trends

The growth of the residential market fuels a demand for cabinetry and joinery.

A significant market trend is in an increasing consumer demand for natural, sustainable and

renewable products. There is also a market shift to low impact buildings, often made of wood and

composites, offering opportunities for the industry in future.3

Innovation in the sector

Technology

Technology is increasing the quality and precision of the industry. Through ultrasound and laser

scanners wood quality and precision milling can be done efficiently.

Lean manufacturing

Lean manufacturing techniques make a significant difference in this traditional sector. Increased

quality control, labour productivity and efficiency contribute to a circular economy in the industry

and maximising efficiency.

What are businesses doing locally?

Tricoya

Tricoya produce specialist, ‘gold standard’ MDF, which is extremely durable and stable.

Yorkshire Timber Engineering

The company produce high quality, low weight timber joists, providing increased design

flexibility and stability. Additionally timber built frames for housing, increasing the speed and

ease of house building.

1 Structural Timber Association, Annual survey of UK structural timber markets, market report 2016, 10/2017. 2 Timber trade federation, growing the use of wood. 3 New Statesman, why wood is making a comeback in house building, 13/03/2018.


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Challenges

Brexit provides challenges for importing and exporting in the industry.

Sustainability is challenging as timber is a slow growth product.

Opportunities

Low impact buildings are a growing market, as well as offsite housebuilding.

Societal demand for natural and sustainable products.


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Manufacture of fabricated metal products

485 VAT-registered businesses, 7,900 jobs, Humber LQ 1.91

Strong representation in: Kingston upon Hull; East Riding of Yorkshire; North East

Lincolnshire; North Lincolnshire

Specialisms:

Structural metal products

Central heating & radiators

Other tanks & reservoirs

Treatment & coating of metals

Steel drums & similar containers

Sector Overview

Metal fabrication is the process used to shape metal into components or end products.

This is achieved using a range of techniques including reduction and shaping processes,

welding and machining. Fabrication projects often require multiple steps even to produce

relatively simple products.4

4 Value Line, industrial overview: metal fabricating.


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The manufacture of fabricated metal products was worth an estimated £17.5 billion to the

UK economy in 2017

Metal fabrication primarily falls into three categories:

Commercial: goods designed for use by consumers such as appliances and cars.

Industrial: components that are used in other equipment, which may in turn become

commercial products.

Structural: metalworking that produces the components used in the building

process.5

The metal fabrication process often involves three broad steps starting with design,

followed by fabrication of the required parts, and completed with finishing and assembly.

Many companies in the sector use Computer Aided Design (CAD) and/or Computer Aided

Manufacturing (CAM) software during the design process, in addition to CNC tools

(Computerised Numerical Controls) for the fabrication stage.6

The versatility of the tools and processes used in metal fabrication result in it being applied

across a wide range of industries, including many that strongly represented across the

Humber. •

Aerospace;

Agricultural machinery;

Automotive;

Construction

Medical equipment;

Original equipment manufacturers;

Recreational vehicles;

Renewable energy.

The sector is characterised by an overrepresentation of micro-sized businesses that may

only offer a limited range of services to meet demand within the broader supply chain.

Research conducted across the Humber suggests that medium-sized businesses tend to

add scale by offering dedicated services in each of the three key stages of the metal

fabrication process, yet specialising within a defined range of industries.

Market trends

The value of the metal fabrication industry has grown annually since 2010 across the

Yorkshire & Humber region by £546 million (42.6%) to be worth an estimated total of £1.8

billion in 2017.

Information Technology is playing an increasingly critical role on the metal fabrication

industry. Outdated shop equipment and ICT hardware and software limit business agility to

adapt to shifting customer expectations and their flexibility to handle new materials.

5 AP news, Global Sheet Metal Fabrication Services Market Analysis & Trends 2015-2017 & Industry Forecast 2018-2027, 04/02/2019. 6 Infiniti research, trends in metal fabrication industry.


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Improved resource planning and operating with more streamlined production line

processes and is also of increasing interest to businesses in the sector in order to remain

competitive.

Innovation in the sector7

1. Automation

Robotics are increasing in capabilities and application on the industry floor. There is the

potential for selected work processes to be controlled remotely and streamlined as

necessary. This technology will also likely create more positions for highly skilled

technicians.

2. 3D Printing

3D printing technology is advancing quickly using an increasing range of materials

including ABS plastic, polylactic acid (PLA), polyamide (nylon), epoxy resins, silver,

titanium, steel, and polycarbonate. This technology is arguably the future of the metal

fabrication industry and offers great potential for improved efficiency, output and

customisation, as well as reduced waste.

Examples of businesses operating across the Humber

Ideal Boilers (Hull)

Blackrow Engineering (Immingham)

DAM Structures (Bridlington)

C.F. Struthers (Hull)

Delta Engineering Group (Immingham)

Phoenix Building Systems (Hull)

Crowle Wharf Engineers (Crowle)

Yorkshire Marine Containers (Catfoss)

Challenges8

Fluctuations in commodity pricing.

Labour supply to meet both replacement demand and also to satisfy technical skill

requirements.

Rigorous compliance standards.

Opportunities

Emerging markets and scope for ‘reshoring’ as costs and wages rise in fast-growing

developing nations.

Significant growth in business stock and employment locally offer opportunities to

enter new supply chains.

7 Mainstay Manufacturing, accessed 19/02/2019 8 ABAS, Innovation vital as metal fabricators face new challenges, 26/01/2017


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Manufacture of machinery & equipment


Strong representation in: Kingston upon Hull; East Riding of Yorkshire

Specialisms:

Engines & turbines (except aircraft, vehicles & cycles)

Other taps & valves

Agricultural & forestry machinery

Other special purpose machinery

Sector overview

The machinery and equipment sector is a cyclical, capital-intensive sector. It serves a

broad range of markets including agriculture, construction, energy, infrastructure and

transportation. Due to the breadth of industries supplied, products can range from ploughs,

engines, compressors, generators, turbines, hydraulics, gearing and cranes. Almost every

country has industries that require machines and equipment, resulting in a globalised

industry.9

Production is flexible, as the sector is susceptible to long-run business cycles, although

this acts as a buffer against short term market variations. It is an innovative sector,

designing machines for every industry and increasing productivity. 10

Market trends

Three main market trends can be identified:

1. Internet of Things (IoT)

Increasingly technology such as virtual reality and smart products are being used. This

allows increased revenue through new services, smart factories and digital supply

chains.11

2. Business 2 Consumer (B2C)

The traditional manufacturing industry is moving from a business to business model to a

business to customer model. This shortening of the supply chain increases profit and

allows greater customer engagement. It also allows for alternative business models, such

as pay-per-use.12

3. Servitisation

Servitisation is where manufacturing firms developing services and solutions that

supplement their traditional products. This often involves creating a customer journey. 13

9 Value Line, Industry Overview. 10 Euler Hermes Global, machinery and equipment, 11 Strategy&, Industrial Manufacturing trends 2018-2019. 12 Hitachi Solutions, 10 trends that will dominate manufacturing in 2019. 13 Digitalist Magazine, Components of Change: anticipated top tends in industrial manufacturing, 05/10/17.


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1. Process technology

Innovative production processes using technology such as 3D printers and highly accurate

sensors are modernising the production process in the sector. Precision design and

engineering is increases the quality of goods in the sector.

1. End user technology

Innovations in end user technology to produce smart products for customers is growing the

after sales services in the sector. Specialist architecture, engineering and logistics services

can be tailored to the end user, increasing productivity through big data.

2. Product development

Product development techniques are an area of innovation in the sector. Advanced

technologies in the manufacture process allow greater use of ‘big data’ analytical insights.

This can be used to streamline the production process.


Sumo

Sumo are a specialist in the design and manufacture of innovative farming

machinery. Using high quality materials and techniques, they invent farming

solutions for customers around the world to improve productivity. 14

Clean 6

Clean 6 are a start-up, specialising in small scale waste management and energy

production. Through a horizontally designed incinerator, that can fire up to 1,700

degrees Celsius and be easily transported, small and medium businesses can

autonomously incinerate waste and produce energy with a minimal impact on the

environment. 15

Heald

Heald specialise in permanent and temporary perimeter security equipment. They

operate to the highest standards in their field and have won several awards for

innovation. Their most popular products are moving bollards, raising security

barriers and road blockers, all of which have very small penetration depths, making

them easy to install anywhere.16

14 www.sumo1.com/ 15 www.clean6.co/ 16 www.heald.uk.com

http://www.sumo1.com/

http://www.clean6.co/

http://www.heald.uk.com/


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Arxell

Arxell specialise in concrete drying technologies that are faster, and more eco-

friendly than standard industrial practices. The Arxell Drying System is a focussed

drying technology that concentrates drying air on the area where it is needed. Arxell

create innovative drying solutions and claim their patented technology is set to

revolutionise the drying industry.17

Challenges

Increasing demand for technically skilled workers.

Vulnerable to changing global economic trends, because of international market.

Opportunities

Smaller supply chains are preferred by consumers.

Lean production and an increasing focus on productivity great space for future

innovation.

17 www.arxell.com

http://www.arxell.com/


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Manufacture of motor vehicles & trailers


Strong representation in: Kingston upon Hull; East Riding of Yorkshire

Specialisms:

Trailers & semi-trailers

Caravans

Sector overview

The Manufacture of motor vehicles and trailers in the Humber primarily focuses on the

production of trailer caravans, static caravans, holiday homes and motor homes. The

caravan industry is especially prevalent in the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Caravans are produced through modular building techniques, using materials such as

wood, plastic and interior furnishings.

The caravan industry is worth £6bn per year to the UK economy. The national caravan &

motorhome industry employs over 100,000 people, and the sector has 1.7 million

customers. 18

The Caravan Club leisure vehicle survey found that the caravan industry is highly

concentrated. For example, in the production of motorhomes, 10 manufacturers, represent

75% of the market. 19

Market trends

Three main market trends can be identified in relation to the caravan sector.

1. Growing market

The increasing number of ‘staycations’ in the UK and a shift to low-fuss low-cost holidays

that allow customers easily access to nature have assisted the caravan industry. 20

2. Changing demographic

The caravan market is widening beyond its traditional audience. Using innovative designs

and creating simple, affordable but luxurious holidays, the market is capturing a younger

urban demographic by offering a high quality escape to the country. Additionally, the core

market for the sector is an aging demographic encouraging more accessible designs.21

18 NCC, Industry Statistics. 19 Caravan & Motorhome Club, 2016 leisure vehicle survey, 05/10/2016. 20 Mintel, camping and caravanning, 04/2016. 21 The Drum, from pensioners to hipsters, 06/06/2017.


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3. Abundance of high quality used stock

The consistent improvement of all types of product in the caravan sector since it’s

popularisation in the 1960’s has created significant quality in the market. Static caravans,

for example, have central heating, double glazing and Wifi. They are as advanced as

many people’s homes. As a result, there is a reduced incentive to purchase new caravans

because the second hand market is so strong.22

Based on broad industrial research, innovation in the sector can be grouped as:

1. Aerodynamics

Designs of touring caravans and motor homes are becoming increasingly light and

aerodynamic, increasing fuel efficiency and making towing easier.

2. Building methods

Building methods are constantly being updated. Caravans are designed to be fully

integrated with their chassis and lightweight, high quality building materials and techniques

improve the products.

3. Design

Caravan design is adjusting and changing to meet the needs of its core market. Easier

access, simple to use controls and integrated technologies meet the changing needs of

the market.

4. Future of modular

The growth of modular buildings, often in the form of holiday lodges, hotels and offices is

an expanding area of innovation for the sector. This is especially significant, as the sector

and the Swift Group, Willerby Homes and ABI (UK) already targeting this growing market.


Swift Group

Swift’s ‘pure innovation’ aim and vision to have innovative products means it

undertakes significant research and innovation work.

Swift innovate through their intelligent construction systems, connect direct

aftersales service and built in technology.23

Willerby Homes

Willerby focus their innovation on bespoke modular buildings through ‘Willerby

Innovation’. 24

Walker Modular

Walker Modular specialise in modular built, self-contained, kitchen and bathroom

pods. These are commonly used in the building of new hotels.25

22 Glass business, holiday home market update, 12/2018 23 https://www.swiftgroup.co.uk/ (accessed: Feb 2019) 24 https://www.willerby.com/ (accessed: Feb 2019) 25 https://www.walkermodular.com/ (accessed: Feb 2019)

https://www.swiftgroup.co.uk/

https://www.willerby.com/

https://www.walkermodular.com/


22

WHSV

WHSV are a support vehicles company, creating mobile motorsport, hospitality and

exhibition spaces. Working with a host of high-end clients to provide bespoke,

purpose built trailers to cover many different client requirements.26

Challenges

Quality is very high is second hand market.

Market is saturated, causing accelerating decreasing return on investment.

Opportunities

Growth and necessity of modular buildings.

Holiday lodges are increasing in popularity and have positive image.

26 http://www.whsv.co.uk/ (accessed: Feb 2019)

http://www.whsv.co.uk/


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Manufacture of furniture 85 VAT-registered businesses, 5,000 jobs, Humber LQ 4.37 Strong representation in: East Riding of Yorkshire; North Lincolnshire Specialisms:

Office & shop furniture

Kitchen furniture

Other furniture

Sector overview

The manufacture of furniture is a broad sector, mainly using metal, wood, plastic and

glass. The end use of produces is spilt into residential and commercial. Residential can

include kitchen and dining, living rooms, bedrooms and outdoor. Commercial includes

offices, shops and hotels.27

As a result the sector is varied and contains many sub-sectors.

The furniture industry is has no traditional regional home.28 The Humber produces a cross

section of the sector, with examples of kitchens, office and domestic furniture.

Market trends

There is a growing trend in renting and smaller houses. This drives a market

demand for smaller, more versatile and affordable furniture.29

The domestication of institutions such as offices and hospitals is driving the growth

of furniture use in these settings. Additionally, the growth in home working and

telecommuting is encouraging sales of office furniture in domestic settings.30

As populations grow in the UK and beyond, the number of homes and residential

properties increases. This drives growth for the sector.31

There is a significant divide between the market demand from the older generation,

requiring high quality ergonomic designs, and younger customers. Younger

customers prefer versatile, affordable and multi-purpose furniture. There is also an

increasing demand for sustainably sources and fair-trade products. 32


1. Demographics

Many kitchen and furniture designs are tailored to the needs of the consumer. For

example, older customers can take advantage of boil taps and innovations to improve the

accessibility of their homes.

27 GVR, industry insights, 12/2018. 28 British Furniture Confederation, about the industry. 29 CMTC, challenges and trends facing furniture manufacturers, 29/11/2017. 30 GVR, industry insights, 12/2018. 31 Ibis, Kitchen Furniture Manufacturing, -08/2018. 32 CMTC, challenges and trends facing furniture manufacturers, 29/11/2017.


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2. Internet of Things (IoT)

The ‘internet of things’ is an area of innovation in this sector. Kitchens that can be

controlled from an app, or furniture that monitors the wellbeing of its user.

3. Sustainability

The finite resources of the planet are encouraging companies to think innovatively about

the sources of their materials and the use of waste products.

4. Augmented Reality

Augmented reality allows customers to see furniture in a space before it is purchased,

allowing the user to better visualise a product before purchasing it.


Wren Kitchens

Wren Kitchens are making use of 3D modelling, innovative storage solutions and

unique manufacturing processes. 25% of their materials are locally sourced and

45% comes from local sawmills. The waste products from the manufacturing

processes are utilised in agricultural and rural projects. 33

Howdens Joinery

Howdens Joinery innovate through producing robust connected appliances.

Howdens offer a ‘Cloud of Things’ Iot Gateway as an integral part of their smart

kitchen solutions.34

Legend Furniture

Legend custom build, handmade furniture based on either a musical, urban or

fantasy themes.35

Elite Furniture

Elite manufacturer contemporary & adaptive office furniture, workstations & seating

solutions that contribute to employee wellbeing and productive office

environments.36

Hawk Furniture

Hawk’s contemporary office furniture such as indoor picnic tables and multiple

monitor workspaces. They also make electric height adjustable workspaces that

contribute to a healthy lifestyle through IoT technology. 37

Kinetic Furniture

Kinetic specialise in the manufacture of laboratory furniture and educational

furniture with clients including Cancer Research UK and Aston Martin.38

33 https://www.wrenkitchens.com/ (accessed: Feb 2019) 34 https://www.howdens.com/ (accessed: Feb 2019) 35 https://www.legend-furniture.co.uk/ (accessed: Feb 2019) 36 https://www.elite-furniture.co.uk/ (accessed: Feb 2019) 37 www.hawkfurniture.co.uk (accessed: Feb 2019) 38 www.kineticlaboratories.co.uk (accessed: Feb 2019)

https://www.wrenkitchens.com/

https://www.howdens.com/

https://www.legend-furniture.co.uk/

https://www.elite-furniture.co.uk/

http://www.hawkfurniture.co.uk/

http://www.kineticlaboratories.co.uk/


25

Challenges

Long shelve life of products limits the number of available customers.

Limited scope for innovation in basic products, as they often fulfil a standard and

recognised need.

Opportunities

There is potential for a greater number of exports across the sector.

Changing demographics opens new design markets for both modern and traditional

designs in the sector.


26

7. Common themes and emerging priorities…

To follow …


27

Appendices

APPENDIX A: Engineering and Assembly Sector Classification

16 Manufacture of wood and of products of wood and cork, except furniture; manufacture of articles

of straw and plaiting materials

24.2 Manufacture of tubes, pipes, hollow profiles and related fittings, of steel

25.1 Manufacture of structural metal products

25.21 Manufacture of central heating radiators and boilers

25.29 Manufacture of other tanks, reservoirs and containers of metal

25.3 Manufacture of steam generators, except central heating hot water boilers

25.4 Manufacture of weapons and ammunition

25.5 Forging, pressing, stamping and roll-forming of metal; powder metallurgy

25.6 Treatment and coating of metals; machining

25.7 Manufacture of cutlery, tools and general hardware

25.91 Manufacture of steel drums and similar containers

25.93 Manufacture of wire products, chain and springs

25.94 Manufacture of fasteners and screw machine products

25.99 Manufacture of other fabricated metal products n.e.c.

26.5 Manufacture of instruments and appliances for measuring, testing and navigation; watches and

clocks

26.6 Manufacture of irradiation, electromedical and electrotherapeutic equipment

26.7 Manufacture of optical instruments and photographic equipment

26.8 Manufacture of magnetic and optical media

27.1 Manufacture of electric motors, generators, transformers and electricity distribution and control

apparatus

27.2 Manufacture of batteries and accumulators

27.31 Manufacture of fibre optic cables

27.33 Manufacture of wiring devices

27.4 Manufacture of electric lighting equipment

27.5 Manufacture of domestic appliances

27.9 Manufacture of other electrical equipment

28.11 Manufacture of engines and turbines, except aircraft, vehicle and cycle engines

28.12 Manufacture of fluid power equipment

28.13 Manufacture of other pumps and compressors

28.14 Manufacture of other taps and valves

28.15 Manufacture of bearings, gears, gearing and driving elements

28.2 Manufacture of other general-purpose machinery

28.3 Manufacture of agricultural and forestry machinery

28.4 Manufacture of metal forming machinery and machine tools

28.9 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery

29 Manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers

30 Manufacture of other transport equipment

31 Manufacture of furniture

32.5 Manufacture of medical and dental instruments and supplies


28

32.99 Other manufacturing n.e.c.


29

APPENDIX B: Definition of Location Quotients

The definition of a Location Quotient used in this report is taken from EMSI, a Labour

Market Analytics company dedicated to improving the understanding of economic growth

and prosperity.

A location quotient (which is usually abbreviated to LQ) is essentially a measure of

concentration. England has been assigned an LQ of 1.0 and compares other regions to

that constant. So if a particular industry has an LQ of <1.0 in a region, it means that

industry has a low concentration in that region compared to England as a whole. In other

words, the region is below average. An LQ of >1.0 means that the industry has a high

concentration in the region.39

Adapted from Slane, R (2012), ‘What is Location Quotient?

https://www.economicmodelling.co.uk/2012/11/28/what-is-location-quotient/

39 Slane, R (2012). Accessed in February 2019 at: https://www.economicmodelling.co.uk/2012/11/28/what-is-location-quotient/

https://www.economicmodelling.co.uk/2012/11/28/what-is-location-quotient/


30

APPENDIX C: Selected Business Database (source: MINT UK)

16: Manufacture of Wood & Wood Products

Company name Town Primary UK

SIC (2007)

code

Trade description

Bayram Timber

Limited

North Ferriby 16100 The merchanting of timber. (Source: Jordans)

James E. Smith

(Northern) Limited

Hull 16100 A commercial timber importer and merchant.

(Source: Jordans)

Rocal Insulating

Panels Ltd.

Brigg 16210 Manufacture of veneer sheets and wood-based

panels (Source: Jordans)

Panelbond Limited Grimsby 16210 Manufacture of veneer sheets and wood-based

panels (Source: Jordans)

J.B. Timber

Importers Limited

Brough 16230 Manufacture of other builders' carpentry and

joinery (Source: Jordans)

SOL Specialist

Manufacture Limited

Hull 16230 Manufacture of other builders' carpentry and


W J Components

Limited

Hull 16230 The supply of roof trusses, floor joists and timber

treatment. (Source: Jordans)

Orca Building

Products Limited

Ulceby 16230 Manufacture of other builders' carpentry and


Yorkshire Timber

Engineering Limited

Beverley 16230 Manufacture of other builders' carpentry and


Turner Timber

Engineering Limited

Driffield 16230 Manufacture of other builders' carpentry and


Mipod Solutions Ltd Hull 16230

BWB Manufacturing

Limited

Hull 16240 Manufacture of wooden containers (Source:

Jordans)


31

25: Manufacture of Fabricated Metal Products


SIC (2007)

code

Trade description

Britspace Modular

Buildings Limited

Brough 25110 Design, manufacture and installation of modular

buildings. (Source: Jordans)

Dam Structures

Limited

Bridlington 25110 The manufacture of metal structures. (Source:

Jordans)

Blackrow

Engineering CO.

Limited

Grimsby 25110 Engineers operating mainly in the food industry.

(Source: Jordans)

C.F.Struthers Limited Hull 25110 Fabrication engineers. (Source: Jordans)

Delta Engineering

Group Limited

Immingham 25110 The providing mechanical and electrical

engineering, plant maintenance construction.

(Source: Jordans)

Anglia Engineering

Solutions Limited

Immingham 25110 The provision of machining and fabrication

engineering services. (Source: Jordans)

Crowle Wharf

Engineers Limited

Scunthorpe 25110 Manufacture of metal structures and parts of

structures (Source: Jordans)

G.R.M. Engineering

& Contract Services

Limited

Goole 25110 Manufacture of metal structures and parts of


Fender Steel Limited Scunthorpe 25110 Manufacture of metal structures and parts of


Pearlgreen

(Engineering) Ltd.

Hull 25110 Manufacture of metal structures and parts of


Parmac Engineering

Services Limited



Phoenix Hull Limited Hull 25110 Manufacture of metal structures and parts of


Phoenix Building

Systems Limited



Fox Precision

Engineering Ltd

Hull 25110 Precision engineering. (Source: Jordans)

Ideal Boilers Limited Hull 25210 The manufacture and distribution of boilers.

(Source: Jordans)

Ideal Boilers Hull 25210 Boiler Manufacturers (Source: Market Location)

Yorkshire Marine

Containers Limited

Driffield 25290 Manufacture and repair of container equipment.

(Source: Jordans)


32

28: Manufacture of Machinery & Equipment


SIC (2007)

code

Trade description

Senvion Goole 28110 Turbines and Parts Thereof Manufacturers

(Source: Market Location)

EVO Torque Beverley 28110 Diesel Engine Equipment and Services (Source:

Market Location)

GWS Engineers

Limited

Scunthorpe 28110 Manufacture of engines and turbines, except

aircraft, vehicle and cycle engines (Source:

Jordans)

Tempest Diesels

Limited

North Ferriby 28110 Manufacture of engines and turbines, except

aircraft, vehicle and cycle engines (Source:

Jordans)

TGB Turbine

Services Ltd

Hull 28110

Systemwash (UK)

Limited

Goole 28120 Manufacture of fluid power equipment (Source:

Jordans)

East Yorkshire

Hydraulics Limited

Hull 28120 Manufacture of fluid power equipment (Source:

Jordans)

The Water

Hydraulics CO. Ltd

Hull 28120 Manufacture of fluid power equipment (Source:

Jordans)

Becker U K Limited Hull 28131 Manufacture of pumps (Source: Jordans)

ERP Power Products

Limited

Hull 28131 Manufacture of pumps (Source: Jordans)

Hydrocore Limited Beverley 28131 The manufacture of high pressure water mist fire

suppressants. (Source: Jordans)

Talium Limited Hessle 28131 Manufacture of pumps (Source: Jordans)

Armak Ltd Hull 28131 The producer motors. (Source: Jordans)

Air Lines &

Compressors (Yorks)

Limited

Hull 28132 Manufacture of compressors (Source: Jordans)

Advanced Actuators Goole 28132 Hydraulic Equipment Manufacturers (Source:

Market Location)

Walker Modular Hull 28140 Bathroom Fixtures and Fittings - Manufacturers


Mira Showers North Ferriby 28140 Bathroom Fixtures and Fittings - Manufacturers


Wartsila Valves

Limited

Brough 28140 The manufacture and supply of specialist valves

and control equipment for the oil, gas, marine

and underground coal mining industries.

(Source: Jordans)

Team Valve &

Rotating Services

Grimsby 28140 Valves Manufacturers of (Source: Market

Location)

M & D Jenkins

Industrial Suppliers

Hull 28140 Valves Manufacturers of (Source: Market

Location)


33

Spiral Tech

Research UK Limited

North Ferriby 28150 Manufacture of bearings, gears, gearing and

driving elements (Source: Jordans)

Tramco Europe Hull 28220 Conveyor Belts and Systems (Source: Market

Location)

Windsor Materials

Handling

Immingham 28220 Material Handling Equipment (Source: Market

Location)

Pickerings Lifts Hessle 28220 Lift Manufacture of (Source: Market Location)

A & M Engineering

(Hull) Limited

Hull 28220 Manufacture of lifting and handling equipment

(Source: Jordans)

Winch Systems

Limited


(Source: Jordans)

Romica Engineering

Limited

Beverley 28220 Manufacture of lifting and handling equipment

(Source: Jordans)

Pearson And Curtiss

Limited


(Source: Jordans)

Panova Lifts Limited Hull 28220 Manufacture of lifting and handling equipment

(Source: Jordans)

Abbeywold Limited Driffield 28220 Manufacture of lifting and handling equipment

(Source: Jordans)

CSP Technology Ltd Scunthorpe 28230 Manufacture of office machinery and equipment

(except computers and peripheral equipment)

(Source: Jordans)

North Sea Ventilation

Limited

Hull 28250 General commercial activities. (Source: Jordans)

Leigh TEC Systems

Limited

Goole 28250 Manufacture of non-domestic cooling and

ventilation equipment (Source: Jordans)

Frosty ICE Limited Barton-Upon-

Humber

28250 Manufacture of non-domestic cooling and

ventilation equipment (Source: Jordans)

Neil Vessey (Storage

Tanks) Limited

Scunthorpe 28290 Manufacture of other general-purpose

machinery n.e.c. (Source: Jordans)

Braham And Dixon

(1985) Limited

Hull 28290 Manufacture of other general-purpose


Food Machinery

Servicing Ltd



Daco Solutions

Limited

Beverley 28290 Mechanical designers, consultants and

manufacturers. (Source: Jordans)

South Cave Tractors

Limited

Brough 28290 Manufacture of other general-purpose


Thomas Hill

Engineering (Hull)

Limited



4matic Design &

Manufacture Limited

Grimsby 28290 Manufacture of other general-purpose


Jones Engineering

Manufacturing

Limited

Doncaster 28290 Manufacture of other general-purpose


Weightek Limited Hull 28290 Selling, maintaining and repairing weighing

equipment. (Source: Jordans)

ALF Kitching & Sons

Limited

Scunthorpe 28302 Manufacture of agricultural and forestry

machinery (other than agricultural tractors)


34

(Source: Jordans)

Easterby Trailers

Limited

Bridlington 28302 Manufacture of agricultural and forestry


(Source: Jordans)

Sumo UK Ltd. York 28302 Manufacture of agricultural and forestry


(Source: Jordans)

NRH Engineering

Limited

York 28302 Manufacture of agricultural and forestry


(Source: Jordans)

Superior Machines

Ltd

Driffield 28302 Manufacture of agricultural and forestry


(Source: Jordans)

Terratech Limited Cottingham 28302 Manufacture of agricultural and forestry


(Source: Jordans)

Blackrow

Corporation Limited

Grimsby 28930 A group engaged in engineers and trading is

carried out through blacrow engineering co ltd

and blackrow international ltd. (Source: Jordans)

Holmes Catering

Equipment Solutions

York 28930 Restaurant and Hotel Equipment (Source:

Market Location)

Fritsch UK Limited Hull 28930 Manufacture of machinery for food, beverage

and tobacco processing (Source: Jordans)

Elite Engineering

Solutions Limited

Grimsby 28930 Manufacture of machinery for food, beverage


Turbo Systems

Limited

Hull 28930 Manufacture of machinery for food, beverage


Apple Food Systems

Limited



P & H Precision

Limited



Cottingham

Technical Services

Limited

Cottingham 28930 Manufacture of machinery for food, beverage


API Food Equipment

Limited



Saduri Limited Hull 28930 Manufacture of machinery for food, beverage


Nayati Cooking Ltd Hessle 28930

T.Freemantle Limited Scunthorpe 28950 Manufacture of machinery for paper and

paperboard production (Source: Jordans)

Daifuku Logan Ltd Hull 28990 The integration, design, manufacture and

installation of airport baggage and materials

handling systems. (Source: Jordans)

The Monobuoy

Company Ltd.

Scunthorpe 28990 Manufacture of special-purpose machinery.

(Source: Jordans)


35

De Smet Rosedowns

Limited

Hull 28990 The design and manufacture of screw presses,

press wearing parts and complete mills for the

vegetable oil processing industry and the animal

by-products industry. (Source: Jordans)

Bonds Heavy

Castings

Scunthorpe 28990 Die Casting Equipment and Services (Source:

Market Location)

Services Machinery

& Trucks

Immingham 28990 Industrial Machinery Suppliers and

Manufacturers (Source: Market Location)

Citech Energy

Recovery Solutions

(UK) Ltd

Hessle 28990 Design, manufacture and servicing of gas

turbine waste heat recovery. (Source: Jordans)

Castaway Cast

Products &

Woodware

Ulceby 28990 Die Casting Equipment and Services (Source:

Market Location)

Alphacircle

Engineering Limited

Grimsby 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery

n.e.c. (Source: Jordans)

D. & D. Engineering

(Hull) Limited

Hull 28990 The manufacturing of specialist equipment.

(Source: Jordans)

Aldercote Limited Hull 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery


Heald Limited Hornsea 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery


Hills of Hull Limited Hull 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery


Mimir Marine Limited Hull 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery


Breathe Safe

International Limited

Scunthorpe 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery


Arxell Limited Withernsea 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery


Clean6 Ltd Goole 28990 Manufacture of other special-purpose machinery



36

29: Manufacture of Motor Vehicles & Trailers


SIC (2007)

code

Trade description

Paneltex Limited Hull 29201 A group engaged in the manufacture of

relocatable cold store units, refrigerated truck

and trailer bodies and specialised vehicle

bodies. (Source: Jordans)

DCH Trading Limited York 29201 -

Penman MW Special

Vehicles Limited

Hull 29201 -

Watson & Hunter

Specialised Vehicles

Limited

York 29201 -

Wraith Trailers Scunthorpe 29202 Trailers and Semi-Trailers (Source: Market

Location)

Graham Edwards

Trailers Limited

York 29202 Manufacture of trailers and semi-trailers

(Source: Jordans)

Somi Trailers Limited Scunthorpe 29202 Manufacture of trailers and semi-trailers

(Source: Jordans)

DRT Trailers Limited York 29202 Manufacture of trailers and semi-trailers

(Source: Jordans)

Swift Group Limited Cottingham 29203 The manufacture of touring caravans,

motorhomes and holiday homes, and the

servicing of their after sales requirements.

(Source: Jordans)

Willerby Limited Hull 29203 The manufacture and sale of caravan holiday

homes. (Source: Jordans)

Auto-Trail V.R.

Limited

Grimsby 29203 The manufacture, sale and import of luxury

leisure vehicles, motor homes and caravans.

(Source: Jordans)

Coachman Caravan

Company Limited

Hull 29203 The manufacture of quality touring caravans.

(Source: Jordans)

Victory Leisure

Homes Limited

Hull 29203 The manufacture of caravans. (Source: Jordans)

Carnaby Caravans

Limited

Bridlington 29203 The manufacture of caravans. (Source: Jordans)

Delta Caravans

Holdings Limited

Hull 29203 A group engaged in the manufacture and sale of

caravans. (Source: Jordans)

Arronbrook Limited Hull 29203 Manufacture of caravans (Source: Jordans)

Compact Camper

Conversions Limited

York 29203 Manufacture of caravans (Source: Jordans)

ABI (UK) Group

Limited

Beverley 29203 The 31.08.17 accounts indicate that the

company is either dormant or no longer trades.

(Source: Jordans)

Normandy Holiday

Homes Limited

Grimsby 29203 Manufacture of caravans (Source: Jordans)


37

Carabuild Leisure

Homes Ltd

Beverley 29203 Manufacture of caravans (Source: Jordans)

Continental Holiday

Homes Limited

Hull 29203 Manufacture of caravans (Source: Jordans)

Europa Caravans

Export Ltd


Deluxe Mobile

Homes Limited


RM Leisure Homes

Limited



31: Manufacture of Furniture


SIC (2007)

code

Trade description

Elite Office Furniture

(UK) Ltd.

Goole 31010 The manufacture of office furniture. (Source:

Jordans)

Claughton Office

Equipment Limited

North Ferriby 31010 Manufacture of office and shop furniture

(Source: Jordans)

Hawk Furniture

Limited

York 31010 Manufacture of office and shop furniture

(Source: Jordans)

Routec (GB) Limited Beverley 31010 Manufacture of office and shop furniture

(Source: Jordans)

Johnson-French

Limited

Driffield 31020 Manufacture of kitchen furniture (Source:

Jordans)

Lebus Upholstery

Limited

Scunthorpe 31090 A group engaged in the manufacture of

upholstered furniture for distribution to retail

outlets in the UK and Ireland. (Source: Jordans)

Sangwin Educational

Furniture Limited

Hull 31090 The manufacture of educational furniture.

(Source: Jordans)

Kingstown Furniture

Limited

Hull 31090 The manufacture and supply of furniture.

(Source: Jordans)

Turning Leaf

Furniture Specialists

Limited

Hessle 31090 Manufacture of other furniture (Source: Jordans)

Kinetic Laboratories

Limited

Hull 31090 Manufacture of other furniture (Source: Jordans)

Panel Processing

Limited

Hull 31090 Manufacture of other furniture (Source: Jordans)

Chill Media

Innovations Ltd

York 31090 Manufacture of other furniture (Source: Jordans)

Wren Kitchens

Limited

Barton-Upon-

Humber

47599 The manufacture and retail of kitchen and

bedroom furniture and associated products.

(Source: Jordans)


39

Documents

Engineering & Assembly Chapter