Sales flying in at Anopol

Backed by strategic and financial support from the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS), the company has reported growth across the automotive, medical, semiconductor and aerospace sectors, with export sales fast approaching 35%.

It has also seen major interest in its plant design and installation service, with the last three projects delivering more than £1.2m in revenue.

David Cass, recently appointed managing director, said: “The downturn affected us in terms of reduced orders, but thanks to the diverse nature of the business we were able to face the challenge and emerge stronger than before.

“During the recession, we put in place a strategy that focused on improving productivity, spotting opportunities in new markets and really pushing our expertise in designing and manufacturing bespoke electropolishing and pickling facilities.”

Established in 1969 by John and Brian Swain (the current chairman and technical director respectively), Anopol has grown into one of the most respected names in the industry for chemical and electrochemical treatments of stainless steel, nickel and nickel alloys.

MAS has worked with Anopol for nearly five years, providing assistance towards productivity improvements that resulted in savings of £30,000 on waste and increased efficiency of 23%.