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18/10/2023 @2pm Factory visit to Associated Utility Supplies Ltd (AUS)

It’s an impressive achievement to hear about AUS and their remarkable transformation over the last two years. Their journey from a traditional owner-managed manufacturing company to an Employee-Owned Trust (EOT) with substantial growth is truly inspiring.

Here are some key takeaways from AUS’s success story:

  1. Significant Growth: AUS has achieved a remarkable 54% increase in turnover and a 300% increase in profitability over the past two years. This demonstrates their ability to leverage available resources effectively.
  2. Business Support Services: AUS has actively engaged with business support services tailored for SME manufacturers. This engagement has enabled them to access various schemes that have played a pivotal role in driving and managing their exponential growth.
  3. Holistic Transformation: AUS’s success isn’t limited to product development; it encompasses a comprehensive transformation across the entire organisation. This holistic approach emphasises efficiency, value creation for customers, and building strong relationships.
  4. Collaborative Efforts: AUS’s proactive collaboration with external bodies, such as Innovate UK and the University of Huddersfield, reflects their commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.
  5. Future Planning: Having already surpassed their current plan, AUS is forward-thinking and is now focusing on their next five years, indicating a commitment to sustained growth and development.
  6. Employee Ownership: Transitioning to an Employee-Owned Trust (EOT) is a significant milestone for AUS. This move fosters a sense of ownership and engagement among their workforce, contributing to their success.
  7. Youth Development: AUS’s dedication to encouraging young people to join the business and invest in their development is commendable. Training their own apprentices, not just in engineering but across various disciplines, ensures a youthful and skilled workforce for future growth.

AUS’s journey showcases the power of strategic planning, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Their transformation serves as an excellent example for other businesses looking to achieve similar levels of success.

As part of the visit, Kevin Hallas (Innovate UK) and Clare Green of the Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) will explain how you can also access innovation support to grow your business.

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Date: 18th October 2023

Time: 2pm – 5pm

Refreshments kindly  provided by our host

Venue: Riverside House, Colliers Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield HD8 9TR Google map here