The Princess Royal opened Ercol‘s new £20m furniture factory in Buckinghamshire on October 23.

The building, on a brownfield site set in 23 acres of woodland, will house an integrated plant linked to the design centre, show room and head office. The family-owned business, which has made a conscious decision to remain in the UK, has retained its skilled 400-strong workforce.

Edward Tadros, chairman and managing director, said it was a “once in lifetime opportunity” to design the most advanced furniture factory in Europe.

&#8220As we have to compete in a global market, it is essential that the factory is as efficient as possible. This huge investment will make it possible to capitalise on our skills base and innovate product lines to appeal to tomorrow’s customers. ”

Edward Tadros, Ercol chairman and managing director.

“As we have to compete in a global market, it is essential that the factory is as efficient as possible. In designing the new plant, known as ‘Pavilion in the Park’, environmental factors were paramount. Issues relating to the control of noise, dust extraction, reduction of utilities and emissions often associated with manufacturing furniture, have all been addressed,” said Mr Tadros.

“This huge investment will make it possible to capitalise on our skills base and innovate new product lines to appeal to tomorrow’s customers.”