Singled out

Managing director of Huddersfield-based structural glass manufacturer, Specialist Glass Products, Andrew Taylor, has been acknowledged in The Manufacturer Top 100 2021, and highlighted as an ‘exemplar’ for his exceptional contribution to the manufacturing sector.

Nominated by other leaders, customers and team members, Andrew was one of the 100 selected by a judging panel as a recognised ‘hero of the industry’, honoured for his impact on the sector, creating innovative processes and technology, and helping to encourage more young people into manufacturing careers.

After working for another glass manufacturer for 17 years, Andrew had his own goals and ambitions that exceeded his role, leading him to set up Specialist Glass Products with his brother in Huddersfield, providing bespoke, high-quality glass across the UK, Europe and USA.

Before the pandemic, Andrew made the decision to implement an extensive investment programme extending the manufacturing factory from 30,000ft² to 72,000ft² and equipping the new facility with the latest machinery.

This investment allowed SGP to streamline its processes, improve quality and lead times to allow greater flexibility to its client base throughout lockdown. Andrew also funnelled the team’s skills and capabilities to fill a gap in the market and create glass ‘sneeze screens’, supporting businesses, retail and healthcare organisations with health and safety measures to protect staff and customers from the spread of Covid.

Andrew said: “It is an honour to have been recognised for my enthusiasm and commitment to manufacturing. The past 18 months haven’t been easy for many, both professionally and personally, but luckily we were able to retain our workforce and grow our business further thanks to our previous investment and research.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to those who nominated me, and to the entire Specialist Glass team for their continued support, hard work and determination. We wouldn’t be able to do it without them.”