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▼ Traditional crafting techniques such as bow sanding are still very much part of the process assembly and polishing require human skills to achieve the finish and standards we’ re looking for, so we’ ll continue to incorporate both technology and handcrafted processes into our teams.”
Creating furniture that lasts a lifetime and beyond, the company’ s approach to product longevity also extends to its team, with ercol investing heavily in apprenticeships to train the next generation of its workforce.“ For many years, ercol have had access to a healthy pool of skilled labor due to the number of furniture manufacturers that closed down in the surrounding areas,” Ian shares.“ Over time and with retirements, skills became more difficult to find, and in 2018 the company began to focus once again on apprenticeships. Since then, we’ ve taken on over 30 apprentices across machining, cabinetry, assembly, polishing, engineering, and maintenance. In addition to that we’ ve just had someone finish an apprenticeship in our marketing department, and we’ ve also just started our first-degree apprenticeship in supply chain.
“ Our technical support team are doing an excellent job engaging local schools and colleges, as well as the wider community, to encourage people to consider a career in manufacturing. It’ s crucial that we continue to work with the next generation to secure the future of ercol for another century.”
From speaking with Ian, it’ s clear to see ercol’ s commitment to high-quality production and timeless, relevant designs that attract a wide range of customers. The company’ s approach to UK manufacturing and their journey towards sustainability are testament to how a century-old business can honor its legacy while embracing modern practices. ■
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