Interflex 2000, of Langar, adapts service to supply personal protective equipment (PPE) for front line workers
A company that manufactures parts for the automotive industry has adapted part of its factory to supply specialist personal protective equipment (PPE) for front line workers in response to the national shortage.
Interflex 2000, of Langar, re-opened its site in May in accordance with government regulations, bringing back some of its furloughed workforce.
Although the factory is still manufacturing vehicle components, the company has seen a reduction in demand since restrictions around covid-19 were introduced.
However, the requirement for PPE has soared across a range of settings, from hospitals and care homes to supermarkets and offices.
The company is now making and supplying a range of protective equipment, including recyclable face shields suitable for healthcare staff as well as disposable masks, ear protectors and face visors.
Managing director Jim Griffin said the transition was relatively straightforward.
“Inevitably, it will take some time for the automotive manufacturing sector to recover from the enforced shut down so although we are still producing NVH components, we have also adapted part of our factory for the specific production of PPE. Fortunately, our staff have the necessary transferable skills and so it seemed a logical step,” he said.
“We already have orders going out to a range of organisations and have a healthy sales pipeline.”
Mr Griffin believes it is important that organisations should be able to source PPE from the UK.
He said: “We have such great manufacturing facilities here in the UK, it seems crazy to hear of health trusts and businesses having to buy from abroad when we can supply so quickly.
“It’s crucial to support British manufacturing and the UK economy as a whole.”
In normal times, Interflex make and supply a range of NVH and sealing solutions for vehicles including door seals, interior trim, under carpet and boot seals. They also coat and cut materials such as the fabric used for arm rests.