Sunderland manufacturer ‘opens doors’ for local jobs with new factory launch

Newly founded door manufacturer Portico Doors aims to create 50 jobs during the next two years as it opens the doors to its new Washington factory.

Local independent property consultancy Naylors Gavin Black supported the fledgling business to secure the 34,000 sq ft mixed factory, warehouse and office property on a 10-year lease.

The site, on Walton Road, Pattinson Industrial Estate, has undergone a significant investment already, with the installation of a paint line, a computer design aided 5 axis CNC machine, beam saw, edgebander and a PVC production line allowing Portico Doors to manufacture its products entirely on-site, before making their way to retailers.

Naylors Gavin Black worked with the business, which is family-led by brother and sister duo Tony and Charlotte Craggs, to help in its search for a new manufacturing base which would allow it to grow.

Tony Craggs, managing director and cofounder of Portico Doors, commented: “Making this property our base is a significant step in our journey as a business. Already we have invested significant sums installing equipment, however, there remains space to increase our manufacturing capability as we grow our customer base.

“We have ambitious growth plans for the next two years and we are making strides towards achieving that already with strong initial sales and a buoyant pipeline, interest has been significant.

“Naylors Gavin Black has been incredibly helpful in helping us to identify a location which suits our current and future needs, and then securing a great deal on our behalf. We are confident in our ability to develop this business to be a market leader for residential doors - and having the right location is key to that.”

Keith Stewart, partner at Naylors Gavin Black, added: “It always is a pleasure to meet and work with entrepreneurs like Tony and Charlotte. They have recognised an opportunity and are pursuing it with a determination that leaves me in no doubt that they will make a huge success of Portico Doors.

“I’m pleased that Naylors Gavin Black has been able to be part of Portico Doors’ start-up story. Finding a suitable property to build a manufacturing business is vital to its long-term success, and this location fits the bill excellently. I look forward to seeing Portico Doors grow and flourish during the coming years.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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