newsdesk in depth l Bendi creates skilled UK jobs


With new products and worldwide orders flooding in, Bendi is ramping up manufacturing in the UK, creating new jobs in British-built product. Boosted by the launch of a number of new, innovative and groundbreaking models, 2011 is proving to be a momentous year for Bendi, a market leader for articulated fork lift trucks. So how has Bendi enjoyed unprecedented success during a recession that has seen other forklift companies hit hard? Simon Brown, MD of Bendi, explains: "Many companies view fork lift trucks as a necessary evil. However, with customers of Bendi, it is all about enjoying savings.


“Using a Bendi can save the customer a significant amount of storage space which can free up more production area; huge financial savings can be achieved in many ways - the versatility of a Bendi means less trucks and frees up operators. When using a Bendi in a VNA application, there is no requirement for expensive guidance or specialist floors.


"There are also big savings to be made as a result of the Bendi operating safely and efficiently in aisles of only 1600mm. A reduction in the storage space can lead to smaller building costs and ongoing running costs in terms of rent, rates heating and lighting.”


It is these benefits, together with the global dealer expansion programme, that has necessitated changes in manufacturing to cope with the demand.


Over the past 10 years, Bendi has continued to manufacture in the UK, but like all articulated truck providers, was forced to outsource some production in emerging markets due to the rising cost of UK build. Initially the cost benefits were appealing, but Bendi realised that having control of UK manufactured product is essential, so with a bulging sales order book and international product costs rising, the decision was taken to bring home production to the UK. Faced with the challenge of developing the factory at Redditch is


Paul Overfield, Bendi joint owner and director, who explained: “We have invested heavily in buildings, machines and, most importantly, people to accommodate the new products and to allow for increasing volume in existing lines. The increase in orders both here in the UK and in export sales has thrown up some challenges, but they


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After what has been a very successful year for the company, the girls at Bendi now want to get something of their chest (literally!) and give a little back… by stripping off for Breast Cancer Campaign. Shot around Bendi’s head office in Redditch, the 2012 Bendi Girls Calendar features 10 brave employees resplendent in their pink underwear after being inspired Breast Cancer's recent Wear It Pink Day. The girls are hoping to raise over £5,000 for the research charity and they have had a great start with donations and sponsorship from friends and


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supplier partners of Bendi, which currently totals £3,000. Bendi employee Donna Frost commented, “At Bendi, we strongly believe in doing what we can to raise money for charity. Our production director, Paul Overfield, dyed his hair blonde to raise money for Comic Relief this year. And two years ago our technical manager Dave Fletcher had his whole body waxed in aid of Cancer Research! After watching the men do their bit, we thought it was about time us girls got together to do something and help raise money for such a great cause.” Do your bit by securing your limited-edition calendar today for a minimum donation of £5. Text BEND51 followed by the amount you wish to donate to 70070 or follow this link:


www.justgiving.com/Bendi-girls-wear-it-pink


are nice problems to have. "We already had a highly skilled and dedicated workforce in the factory, so to create even more skilled UK jobs has been very pleasing for everybody at Bendi. Especially when considering they are predominantly for export - the key to national growth." www.bendi.co.uk


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