Allied Glass Investment Secures Jobs

Allied Glass, based in Leeds, is renewing two glass melting furnaces at the Hunslet site over a three-year period, securing the jobs of 400 staff.



Renewing the first furnace began earlier this month, after the site's main furnace was decommissioned after 10 years in operation. During its life, the furnace melted over 800,000 tonnes of glass, producing approximately 1.5 billion bottles.



The company specialises in making containers which have complex shapes, such as flasks, flagons and bottles for specific brands.  The new furnace will be amongst the UK glass industry's most energy efficient, and incorporate the latest controls to ensure the company meets stringent environmental targets.



Andrew Spencer, chief executive at Allied Glass, said: "This is very good news for our customers, staff and for manufacturing in Leeds. Our company has been making glass in Hunslet for over 100 years and we have built up a wealth of experience that has enabled the business to compete successfully and grow steadily.



"At a time when the manufacturing industry in the UK is finding life very difficult, being bombarded with high energy costs and rafts of business compliance regulation, we are delighted to have the confidence to make this long-term investment.



"We have all of the ingredients for a sustainable, successful business and this investment programme renews our enthusiasm and commitment."

The news is particularly welcome in light of the rising cost of gas and electricity, tougher regulations on carbon emissions and foreign competition which has hit the glass industry hard.



In recent years the company has built an international reputation for both innovation in glass packaging and high quality products.



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