Kent-based glass manufacturer Olympic Glass is investing in cutting-edge European machinery to improve production efficiency and sustainability, allowing the company to produce up to three times more glass while reducing water and glass wastage.
Founded in 1992, Olympic Glass specialises in high-performance, energy-efficient glass products. From humble beginnings with second-hand machinery, the business has grown significantly, now employing more than 90 staff and generating a turnover of £12 million.
To support its next phase of expansion, the company has invested in highly automated cutting-edge machinery from Austria.
The investment was made possible by £2.2 million of Green Asset Finance funding from Lloyds, which offers discounted lending on equipment to assist with sustainability goals.
The funding has allowed the purchase of multiple pieces of machinery, which make up an updated glass production line.
Olympic Glass is now one of the only businesses in the UK with this advanced technology. The highly automated machinery requires minimal manual intervention, allowing employees to focus on other key processes.
Due to the sophistication of the technology, staff have undergone specialist training both in-house and in Austria to ensure seamless integration into operations.
With the new equipment, Olympic Glass expects to increase production efficiency by up to 70% and reduce water consumption through a state-of-the-art particle filtration system that enables water reuse. The company is also committed to furthering its sustainability initiative, with plans to install solar panels on its site roof later this year.
Gary Jenkins, managing director at Olympic Glass, said: “Our new manufacturing equipment marks a transformative step for the business as we continue to improve efficiencies across the board.
“The support from Lloyds has been significant in helping to boost our growth and allow us to innovate our operations.
“Having started as a small business, it’s incredibly rewarding to reflect on how far we have come, and we’re excited to see how this investment helps move us forward.”
Steve Sadler, relationship director at Lloyds, added: “Olympic Glass exemplifies how a business can expand while staying true to its values of innovation and sustainability. This latest investment will not only enhance their operational efficiency but also strengthen their environmental commitments.
“It’s been fantastic to support them on this journey, and we look forward to seeing the impact of this next phase of growth.”
