Merseyside based engineering firm IPS Marine Fabrications is reporting rapid growth after doubling its workforce to 30 in the last 12 months.
The Birkenhead firm run by co-directors Paul Smith and Peter Hillan delivers insulation and fabrication of steel and aluminium products.
Mr Smith said the firm had witnessed major growth since 2011 in part due to its relationship as supplier to Cammell Laird. Further deals have been secured across the marine and commercial industrial sectors including Liverpool to Belfast ferries as well as paper mills and hospitals across North Wales.
IPS has seen increased demand for its insulation services which provide thermal, acoustic and structural fire protection. It has also driven growth through its fabrication department which manufactures a wide range of stainless steel and aluminium products.
Mr Smith said IPS had built on success with a £80,000 investment on new equipment including new metal fabrication equipment, a press brake, and drawn arc stud welding machines.
“The last 18 months has seen IPS working on a number of terrific high profile projects including the HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH aircraft carrier,” said Mr Smith. “This productive period has allowed us to invest and provide roles for our skilled local workforce. We are now determined to continue driving growth in both the maritime and commercial industrial sectors. Insulation work as a whole accounts for around 70pc of sales. However, there is huge scope and a growing demand for our sheet metal fabrication service. We make a broad range of products with a speciality in ventilation and air conditioning systems. Our aim is to grow the fabrication side of the business so it accounts for half of sales.”
Mr Smith said IPS’ main share of work is based in the North West. However, the firm is now looking to broaden its reach across the UK.
“A key message we want to communicate is the value for money and high calibre service we provide,” he said. “All work is undertaken in house, by our highly skilled technicians under a rigorous inspection regime. This enables the company to maintain the highest standards of workmanship and customer service. The region’s maritime sector is in an extremely strong position with a number of major construction, engineering and logistics projects planned over the next decade. Billions of pounds are due to be invested into the region with initiatives including Peel Port’s Post Panamax dock development, the Mersey Gateway Bridge and Mersey Multi Modal Gateway. We are determined to show we have the knowledge, skill and capability to help deliver these projects.”
For further details on IPS’ services contact Paul Smith or Peter Hillan on Tel: 0151 6471370 Email: info@ipsmarine.co.uk Website www.ipsmarine.co.uk
IPS Marine Fabrications background
Based in Birkenhead on Merseyside in the North West of the UK, it manufactures insulation products and steel and aluminium, with a particular focus on the marine industry.
It has in-house machining facilities and manufacture to custom requirements for fitting on-site. It undertakes work for customers both in the UK and worldwide.
Insulation Products
IPS manufactures custom made high temperature exhaust insulation pads and blankets as well as products for acoustic and structural fire protection to “A” Class.
It uses specialist skills, knowledge and experience to assist with the design process if this is required.
Metal Fabrication
IPS manufactures a wide range of stainless steel, mild steel and aluminium products focussed on, but not limited to, the marine industry.
Apart from the specialist requirements of the marine industries, it also manufacture for other industrial and commercial applications.