Assembling the future
Marshall and David Downes, after their time at a North East manufacturing firm came to an end.
Spotting a shortage in the market for skilled machinists, they sought start-up advice from the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) in Sunderland .
The new venture was supported through funding from the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA), a national government initiative.
Relying on their extensive list of contacts, the trio are using computer numerical control (CNC) machinery to produce precision products such as valves, shafts and other assembly parts mainly for the oil and gas industry, as well as the power generation and automation sectors.
Andrew Calvert said the firm had been able to hit the ground running thanks to the trio’s background: “We could launch Triotec due to our experience and the trust we’ve built up with our connections over the years, and we’ve got the passion for it.
“So we were delighted to work with BIC Business Adviser,RonAnderson,whogave us the confidence we needed to start-up – he helped us with important matters like insurances as well as cash flow and record keeping.
“Andthelaunchofthebusiness is timely – we feel there is a current skills gap and as a trio we are very experienced in machining very difficult materials using modern CNC machinery to suit customers specific needs.
“The work has become more specialist and there’s currently a good market; Britain is now the eighth biggest manufacturing nation, according to The Manufacturers’ Organisation (EEF) and Santander.”
With an influx of clients from across the country, Triotec already has ambitious plans to expand by moving into larger premises as well as recruit skilled machinists, administrative support and potentially an apprentice.
Mr Calvert says the firm is also looking to invest in the latest innovations in machinery to become one of the most attractive manufacturing firms in the country.