Solidor opens new factory

Composite door manufacturer, Solidor, has opened a new 130,000ft² factory and distribution in Stoke-on-Trent. The facility is said to incorporate the latest in manufacturing technologies and will provide room for future growth. 

The facility combines five previous Solidor production and storage sites into one manufacturing hub to improve production and efficiency, product quality and the work experience for employees.

Solidor is part of Masonite International Corporation, a global designer, manufacturer, marketer and distributor of interior and exterior doors. Vicky Philemon, senior VP and general manager, Masonite Europe, said: “The opening of this purpose-built facility reinforces Solidor’s position as a leader in the UK’s exterior door manufacturing industry and reaffirms our commitment to the Stoke area as we continue to bring employment and career development opportunities to the local community.

“We are excited about the enhancements the new site will bring for our employees, communities, partners and customers in addition to supporting our future growth plans.”

The interior layout has been optimised to improve material flow and to reduce the need for forklift trucks to enhance safety and reduce emissions. The latter is just one of the ways in which the design has focused on sustainability, with the factory achieving a Planet Mark accreditation.

Planet Mark is a sustainability certification which requires the measurement and reduction of whole-life carbon emissions, engagement of the supply chain and the inclusion of the local community. The development was constructed using responsibly sourced or recycled content materials and includes rainwater harvesting, natural lighting and a building management system to ensure that energy use is fully optimised.

Masonite employs approximately 280 people at the new plant, with over 85% of the staff living within the local community.