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Brush Manufacturer Sweeps Into Monkton
A family owned brush manufacturer that’s been based in Sunderland for almost 150 years is on the move. Cottam Brush Ltd – formerly Cottam Bros - is run by the sixth generation of its founding family, is investing in new premises at Monkton Industrial Estate in South Tyneside.
It has moved from its previous home on the Sheepfolds industrial estate, where it has been based since 1858, to make way for regeneration plans in the city, having sold its old base to Sunderland arc.
The move sees Cottam Brush swap its old factory – made up of several separate buildings – for a new, modern 22,000 sq ft industrial unit with all facilities under one roof.
Managing director, Ben Cottam, a great great great-grandson of the founder of the company, said: “This is a massive opportunity for us. As a manufacturing company we have to look forward. Bringing everything together in one place means we can operate more efficiently, turn around orders in less time and increase sales.”
The £3 million turnover company with a workforce of 30 has signed a 15 year lease on its new home after undertaking an exhaustive search of properties across the region supported by Tyne and Wear Development Company.
Ben added: “They were first class. We had to move quickly when we agreed to sell our old site and they were with us all the way - identifying suitable premises, arranging viewings and signposting potential financial support.”
The company hopes its move to Monkton will enable it to increase sales and explore new markets in Europe and the US. It specialises in manufacturing industrial brushes for everything from painting and decorating to oil and gas pipelines.
Paul Buie, manager at Tyne and Wear Development Company, said: “Cottam Brush Ltd has a long and proud history in Sunderland. Relocating the business a few miles down the road will help to secure its future in the region by providing the facilities it needs for success.”
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