Member Article

Hitachi deal will sustain jobs - Romag

A County Durham glass manufacturer says a multi-million pound contract will help to sustain jobs in the area for years to come.

Specialist glass manufacturer Romag, based near Consett, has signed a preferred contractor agreement to supply glass for Hitachi RailEurope’s Class 800/801 high speed trains for the Intercity Express Programme.

And the firm’s managing director Phil Murray has told Bdaily that it’s a massive boost to the area.

“This contract is fantastic news for Romag,” he told us.

“We’ve been making glass for 70 years, and to be awarded such a prestigious contract with Hitachi is a great boost.

“It means we can sustain jobs here and potentially increase our workforce in years to come, so we’re absolutely delighted.

“It also provides high-quality, skilled manufacturing jobs for the people of Consett in an area that it’s desperately needed.”

Now part of Gentoo Group, Romag specialises in security glass for the transport market and ‘high impact’ glass for the rail industry.

It is one of the UK’s leading independent glass processors and is trusted worldwide by leading organisations to deliver high quality, reliable glazing solutions designed to meet customer’s specific requirements.

Romag has been processing glass in its factory in County Durham in the North of England since 1943 and employs around 100 highly skilled staff.

Mr Murray added: “Work has already started with Hitachi. Our technical engineers have already been in touch with their engineers in Japan to look at design work, and we start to supply early next year.

“But the supply will go on for five years and beyond. We’re not being specific about numbers, but it’s a multi-million pound contract so clearly it’s a big opportunity for us.”

Hitachi Rail Europe procurement director Jamie Foster added: “Hitachi has always been very clear that only companies that can meet our high quality standards while offering a competitive cost will be selected to supply to the Class 800/801 trains.

“Romag have consistently demonstrated their commitment to that request. And as a result I am happy for us to show our commitment to them through this award.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Martin Walker .