Truss firms opens second factory

The privately-owned company is based in Northampton and said the new premises in Basildon, Essex, was a response to an improving order book and its sentiment toward construction business next year.

"Because of the specialised nature of the product and what we do, you cannot just press a button so we felt it was time to act," said truss director Mark Smy.

"We have improved our order book at Wellingborough and we see good prospects for the back end of this year and 2014. It's all looking into crystal balls, but we can only take a view on what we have been doing and we feel this is the time."

Robinson designs and makes roof trusses, Ecojoists and JJI floor joists at a 40,000ft2 factory in Northants. It is equipped with roof truss saws and presses and Ecojoist saws, presses and assembly beds. Customers include Persimmon, regional and small housebuilders, and the commercial sector.

The 18,000ft2 Basildon site will concentrate on Gang-Nail roof trusses and spandrel panels providing additional capacity and improved service to the south coast, Essex and eastern counties as well as new customers.

The head office will provide administrative support and a strengthened truss design team.