The company is starting work on its first MoD contract to tackle emissions problems.
Strategic Acquisition Through the Walsall High-Growth Programme
Birchills Automotive has also worked with the Walsall High-Growth Programme to acquire Cheeseman Products into its Green Lane factory.
The team have accessed advice and guidance from business growth adviser Gail Jennings on streamlining production.
Grant Support for Equipment and Manufacturing Investment
Jennings provided guidance on navigating different support programmes, leading to a £30,000 grant from Walsall Council to support the £60,000 purchase of a new tub bending machine.
Technical Manufacturing Capabilities in Niche Exhaust Systems
“We are very niche in what we do and there aren’t many companies that have the technical manufacturing capabilities in place to make exhaust systems that are compliant yet give off the right ‘acoustics,” said Oliver Wellings, Director at Birchills Automotive.
“It’s the complete turnkey package for 4-wheel, 2-wheel, industrial, off road, marine and MoD vehicles. From concept, CAD design and prototyping to development, jig manufacturing, tooling, production, quality, assembly and testing.
Relocation and Integration of Cheeseman Products into Black Country Operations
“The acquisition has been a big moment for us, but thanks to Gail’s support we have been able to successfully integrate it into our Black Country operation, relocating four experts all the way from Aldershot.”
Walsall High-Growth Programme and Peer-to-Peer Support
The Walsall High-Growth Programme, which is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, supports businesses across the borough.
Companies can access business growth advisers that provide one-to-one support to navigate challenges and implement growth strategies.
There is also access to peer-to-peer support, where entrepreneurs and business owners can join a group of leaders to encourage, challenge and stimulate ideas.
Funding and Growth Opportunities for Birchills Automotive
Gail Jennings, business growth adviser, said: “Birchills Automotive initially needed help incorporating Cheeseman Products into its Black Country factory following the acquisition and that’s what we’ve helped it to do.
“From there, we also identified the possibility to secure funding towards the new tube bender that will help it take advantage of new opportunities and Oliver is continuing his business education with the peer-to-peer group.
“It’s exactly the type of company we want to see more of in Walsall, a world class manufacturer with a passion to grow and make the most of its unique ‘niche’ in exhaust systems.”
