Member Article

The only way is up: Caribbean Blinds’ continued growth shows no signs of slowing down as factory extension gets under way

A Sudbury based manufacturer of outdoor shading products is celebrating a hugely successful first half of 2021 and predicts even further growth following the completion of its factory extension later this year.

Between January and June 2021, Caribbean Blinds experienced a 117% increase in turnover compared to the first six months of 2020. The Sudbury based firm has also seen staff numbers rise from 18 to 24 so far this year, with plans for another six employees to join the team over the coming months to keep up with continued demand and projected growth.

Once completed, the 10,000 sq/ft factory extension will provide Caribbean Blinds with more than double its current storage capacity, enabling the fastest growing external shading company in the UK to increase its production levels in line with rising targets, whilst continuing to keep lead times short.

Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds, explained: “Despite the ongoing effects of the pandemic, Caribbean Blinds has experienced a wealth of success during the first six months of 2021. In January, we were deemed one of the highest-growing businesses in the East of England and consequently selected to join East Anglia’s prestigious business development scheme: The Future 50.

“In April, we were named as finalists for two different awards within the space of just two days (The Pro Landscaper Business Awards 2021 and the Family Business of the Year Awards 2021), where we then went on to win two titles. More recently, we were shortlisted for ‘Consumer Business of the Year’ and ‘Family-Owned Business of the Year’ at the Growing Business Awards 2021.

“We are hopeful that our ongoing growth and development will continue into the second half of 2021 due to a number of exciting plans including the completion of our 10,000 sq/ft factory extension which will not only provide us with the production capacity to supply expected demand, but also allow us to expand our highly-skilled team and recruit an additional six technicians.”

By deciding to invest in an expansion of its current site, Caribbean Blinds is able to continue its two-decade long residence in Sudbury. Once completed, the new and improved factory will massively impact the local economy, allowing the family-run firm to employ more people from the surrounding areas for the manufacture and assembly of its range of high-quality products.

Founded in 1987, Caribbean Blinds specialises in the design, manufacture and supply of the finest outdoor shading systems including stylish patio awnings, external blinds, and its award-winning Outdoor Living Pod™.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Andrew Deer .