ABG expands in the UK

A B Graphic (ABG) has opened its new manufacturing facility in Kelleythorpe, Driffield, UK in August, 2024. The facility, which along with the company’s existing premises in Carnaby (UK), Baesweiler (Germany) and Girona (Spain), consolidates ABG’s manufacturing capabilities.

The Kelleythorpe facility integrates ABG's machine shop operations, which were previously divided between the Middleton site and the headquarters in Carnaby. It is now equipped with milling and lathe machinery, featuring equipment from Mazak, Hurco and Matsuura. 

The introduction of the high-speed 5-axis Matsuura machine center offers automation and efficiency, allowing for unmanned performance and extended production capabilities without direct supervision for up to 100 hours. This technological upgrade supports ABG’s principle of maintaining manufacturing standards internally and minimizing dependence on external suppliers, thereby reducing the risk of parts shortages.

Marking the 30th anniversary of Vectra, the Kelleythorpe site has also become the production base for ABG’s Vectra Turret rewinder ranges. This new facility offers more manufacturing space, helping to increase Vectra production capacity, aiding in reducing lead times for customers and further enhancing ABG’s reputation for delivering high-quality products on time. 

The new site also hosts ABG’s first UK demo room, showcasing a complete converting line featuring a non-stop unwinder, ABG’s 4th generation converter, the latest Vectra AutoSet Turret rewinder, an SRI3 for slitting and inspection and ABG’s RTS sheeting machine. The demo room offers customers an opportunity to experience ABG’s technology first-hand.

The development also includes a new two-story office block, that serves as the permanent home for teams that were previously based at ABG's Middleton on the Wolds location, including service, parts, software and design among other teams. 

Dave Lawson, Kelleythorpe’s director, who spearheaded this project over the past few years, said: ‘While our Middleton site served us well for many years, the new Kelleythorpe facility ensures that ABG remains at the forefront of the industry. With this modernized space, we are better equipped than ever to produce the highest quality parts for all ABG machines, not only meeting but exceeding the expectations of our customers. This investment solidifies our position as a leader in the market, enabling us to maintain our competitive edge and continue our tradition of innovation.’

ABG is also expanding its manufacturing capabilities in Germany by doubling the capacity of its Baesweiler site to 4400sqm. This expansion is set to increase the production of SRIs, ABG’s fleyeVision cameras, booklet machines and Horizon Table rewinders, all of which will help in significantly decreasing lead times for customers. 

As ABG celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, the opening of the Kelleythorpe facility highlights the company’s growth. Located just 20 minutes from ABG's Carnaby headquarters, the site offers an ideal location for customers to visit both facilities, enhancing their experience during visits.