PAB Group steps up a gear with Accelerate funding

Coventry-based automotive brackets and panels supplier PAB Group reckons its new Manusoft manufacturing system – acquired with assistance from the West Midlands supply chain initiative, Accelerate – will significantly improve operational efficiencies and costs. The firm, which employs 100 across its two sites in Coventry and Rugby, wanted to move to lean, more streamlined purchasing and operational processes – and saw modern integrated electronic production management as the way forward. PAB’s founder and chairman, Peter Brazier, says: “The automotive industry is a very competitive market and we felt we needed to understand our costs and identify areas we could improve upon, with the ultimate aim of passing on savings to our customers. “The business has grown significantly from a one man band 17 years ago, but until now has never seen the IT system grow accordingly.” PAB tapped into financial and strategic support from Accelerate, channelling £45,000 of capital and business development grants into its Manusoft system and the associated IT infrastructure. Brian Cheney, company accountant, says: “The MRP system will allow us to track orders from start to finish, giving workers on the shop floor greater access to information and ownership of the order… This in turn will translate into operational efficiencies, improved stock turnaround and a new-found ability to meet the incessant cost downs expected by the automotive industry.” PAB, which is currently manufacturing components for a major new rally team, is now looking to use Accelerate’s approach to secure TS16949 quality accreditation. Harry Balmer, business adviser at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber, observes: “The progress made by PAB demonstrates the benefits to be gained from Accelerate, with companies able to secure funding for capital equipment, computer systems and specific business improvement projects. “There are even opportunities to take part in collaborative networks and the recently launched specialist centres, which aim to cultivate SME involvement in technology and innovation.” Next, the PAB Group is setting its sights on making the most of Aston Martin’s decision to place the DB9 series production at Gaydon in Warwickshire.