Member Article

Hastings manufacturer secures £1 million worth of contracts in a single day

Hastings-based Kurt J Lesker has announced that hit their first ever million pound day thanks to a continuing expansion in export orders.

The mid-sized business is a leading global provider of high quality, technically advanced research equipment for scientists.

Currently, 80% of their turnover is as a direct result of exporting across Europe.

The firm, which has been established in Hastings for 25 years, is looking to boost profits by developing their quick turn manufacturing capability and also investigating business opportunities across the Middle East.

Lewis Scott, UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) South East regional director, visited as the firm celebrated achieving £1 million worth of bookings in a day, after several large contracts were confirmed from countries including France and Russia.

Lewis said: “These contracts demonstrate that British products remain in high demand. They are a fantastic example of a successful thriving British business at the forefront of innovation and new technology.

“We congratulate them on their ambitious plans to double turnover and boost staff numbers from 60 to 100 within the next three years.

“Their plans to grow their manufacturing ability in Hastings, and to develop quick turn manufacturing sales, is great news for the company and the local economy.

“They demonstrate what exporting can do for mid-sized businesses and we are keen to help them continue to expand in any way we can.”

Adam Bartlett, manager director of European Operations, said: “Our sales are robust, and achieving £1 million worth of bookings in a single day is a great achievement for the company. We generally deal with 1000+ orders per month and service the whole academic community across Europe.

“Exports are of course vital to what we do and we are looking to continue our expansion by further driving our efforts across Europe.

“We also have plans to explore the Middle East and tap into the huge amount of research activity and funding in that part of the world.

“We have worked closely with UKTI, and have found the expert advice from our locally based International Trade Adviser to be vital. The levels of advice and support have been extremely well received and helpful.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .