UK aluminium expansion: CO Group plans Doncaster facility as retail sales rise 12%

Conservatory Outlet Group, one of the UK’s leading home improvement groups, is set to establish a new aluminium manufacturing facility in Doncaster, marking its first move into in-house aluminium production. The investment will transform a 15,000-square-feet factory into a purpose-built facility equipped with dedicated CNC machines, cutting centres and crimpers.

The project is expected to create 20 new jobs and expand the product range available to the group’s home improvement businesses and 30-retailer network.

The announcement was made at the group’s annual Gala Dinner in Malaga, attended by nearly 100 guests from its ‘Network’. The event marked the largest gathering in the group’s 20-year history.

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Greg Kane, CEO of CO Group, referred to the development an important step forward, which is a “very exciting milestone in our journey and brings a whole new product range to our home improvement businesses and the 30 retailers in our ever-expanding network.”

He added that the investment reflects the group’s commitment to product quality and shorter lead times. Highlighting aluminium’s growing appeal among homeowners and businesses, Kane mentioned that it offers “exceptional strength, sleek aesthetics and good durability with minimal upkeep.”

The group also plans to launch its new Extreme window range and Flush Sash suite over the next 12 months, with the Gala Dinner providing an opportunity to update retailers on its upcoming plans.

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Retail network records 12 per cent sales growth

The CO Retail Network has posted a 12 per cent increase in sales across its 30 retailers in England, Wales and Scotland, despite challenging trading conditions and fragile consumer confidence.

The network has grown turnover, invested in new showrooms and created career opportunities by sharing best practices, adopting industry-leading sales training and using a mix of digital marketing methods.

Mick Giscombe, Managing Director of CO Manufacturing, stated, “With a lot of our sector reporting significant downturns, I’m proud to say we’re not only surviving, but actually thriving, outperforming the market in all areas!”

He added that five members operating in different parts of the UK had each recorded sales growth of more than 25 per cent, describing their performance as “a staggering performance by all of them.”

The new Doncaster facility marks a significant step in the UK aluminium manufacturing landscape, strengthening CO Group’s production capabilities while creating jobs and expanding its home improvement product range.

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