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Manufacturers could not resupply quickly enough; we had to recruit and work overtime to meet consumer demand. We then had to adjust accordingly to account for the dramatic increase in the motorhome and campervan side of the business. Once travel restrictions were lifted, people jumped at the opportunity to travel around the UK with the comfort and security of their own spaces.”
Remaining at the cutting edge of an industry requires continuous investment, and for Leisure Furnishings, this is a process that begins with equipment.“ The technology is continually changing and advancing,” Robert explains.“ We’ re constantly integrating and adapting to new technology with regards to our machinery. Just this week [ at time of writing ] for example, we are introducing some people who work with AI to the office to evaluate what benefits that might bring to the operation.
“ Then for our customers everything is computer based. This means we’ re continually having to invest in new software, which in turn can require people to have extra training. This also occurs on the shop floor, for example, we recently acquired a new CNC fabric machine. It is a more clever, sophisticated and faster machine, but it also produces more reports and requires people to learn how to use its programming.
“ Similarly, we have some very specialist sewing machines that have provided us with the capabilities to create some unique designs which have enabled us to become the industry leader in the motorhome and campervan sector. These machines represent a significant investment not only in terms of the material but also in terms of the training required. This forms an ongoing process that is constantly evolving as the technology develops.”
Robert then takes a moment to reflect on what achieving 25 years in business means for the company and the team:“ It’ s something we’ re really proud of. As well as
the celebrations and reminiscing about the good old days, it’ s important to realize how big a role we play in our community. We’ ve employed a lot of people and provided them with security. We’ ve also gained a reputation the likes of which is incredibly hard to achieve, so we strive to continue and maintain that.”
Looking forward, this year will be about consolidation and remaining a consistent supplier to its significant customer base.“ We’ re looking to not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations,” Robert says.“ We want to be seen as a reliable and steady partner in the industry.
“ In five years’ time we’ d like to maintain our position as one of the leading soft furnishings manufacturers in the UK. We want to continue going from strength to strength, evolving with our customers, and still operating successfully in another 25 years,” Robert concludes. ■
https:// leisure-furnishings. co. uk
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