Manufacturing Today Issue - 223 April 2024 | Page 97

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Fence industry to launch a full ecommerce website . We also began challenging the status quo , questioning why certain products needed to be bespoke when standardization could suffice for most customers ,” he begins .
As it became recognized as a pioneering force in the industry , First Fence expanded its geographical presence by opening various depots across the UK . “ From 2010-to-2015 , we relocated several times , eventually settling on a site with multiple industrial units . We found ourselves working long hours to cover the entire country and maintain the service levels we aimed for . It became overwhelming , prompting us to rethink our approach . Thus , in 2015 , we began opening depots across the UK , our first one being in Kent , away from our Midlands head office . In June 2015 , we expanded to Bristol . The following month , we bought our very first site in Tipton . Then , in August 2015 , we secured a new head office and manufacturing facility in Swadlincote . This marked a turning point for us as previously , First Fence was not a manufacturer and primarily sourced products . Upon reflection , we figured it would make sense economically to develop our manufacturing capabilities . Today , with eight locations and a national distribution center acquired last October , we operate a diverse fleet of 80-to-90 vehicles geared towards enhancing our customer service ,” he informs .
Vinny discusses First Fence ’ s newly acquired national distribution center , as well
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