Yorkshire-based leading glass manufacturer Specialist Glass Products has invested GBP 1.2 million into new equipment to further enhance efficiency after receiving GBP 840,000 in funding from Lombard. The company is the first in the UK to acquire a Systron proHD Vertical Glass Processing machine at a jumbo size, allowing for larger-scale production without compromising on quality and value.
At Specialist Glass Products’ glass processing factory in Huddersfield, the new machine will allow the firm to handle more jumbo glass orders up to 6,000 by 3,210 millimetres. The company will also continue to process flat glass and curved glass orders to bespoke measurements.
The installation of the new machine is expected to enable Specialist Glass Products to drive turnover to GBP 15 million within two years, with sales growing by at least 10 percent per annum.
The new machine is multi-functional and can polish, grind, cut and shape glass into any form. It also allows for the production of 120 fully finished panels daily. This ensures that the glass manufacturer can continue to work with bespoke designs, especially those requiring identical units of the same shape and size.
Standout features of the new machine that will enhance production include consistent polishing quality with precise control over polishing pressure, guaranteed arris parallelism due to patented water-cushion guidance, vibration-free processing to prevent chipping and protected suction cups to prevent damage during the manufacturing process.
Andrew Taylor, managing director at Specialist Glass Products, said, “This new processing machine is part of our broader strategic investment plan and highlights our commitment to pushing the boundaries of glass processing. Following on from our significant GBP 1.75 million investment in 2023/24, which saw the acquisition of a jumbo cutting machine, two polishing machines (both vertical and horizontal), and a CNC processor, this new addition further strengthens our capabilities.
“It will not only streamline our capacity but also positions us to lead in delivering cutting-edge solutions to meet evolving market demands. It’s an exciting step forward in our mission to innovate, diversify, and grow sustainably.”
Over the last two decades, Specialist Glass Products has established its reputation as the UK’s leading glass manufacturer, showcasing a high standard of craftsmanship across curved, flat and laminated glass projects.