This year sees the 50th anniversary of Hereford Galvanizers (plus the 25th anniversary of sister company Shropshire Galvanizers). The family firm (www.galvanizers.co.uk) has come a long way since it was set up by Archie Phillips and Eric Beasey in the 1960s.
Today, it is one of the largest galvanizers in the UK, servicing local, national and overseas customers in markets ranging from construction and agriculture to blacksmiths and sculptors — and even home-owners looking to smarten up their garden gate.
The 60 staff at its 1,100sq m factory include six people who have worked at the company for over 30 years. Managing director David Watkins says he is delighted by the company’s progress.
“Last year, we galvanized more steelwork at the Hereford plant than in any of our previous 49 years. As for the future, we are making a significant investment this year.
“Over £300,000 will be spent on the replacement of the galvanizing kettle and cranes, improvements to the storage facilities, and adding new vehicles and trailers to our transport fleet. There has also been growth at the
Shropshire Galvanizers plant, where we have introduced a night shift to increase capacity.”
Continual investment means that the facilities at Hereford Galvanizers are among the most modern in the UK, with high-tech gas heating, filtration and computer systems, plus round-the-clock operation.
The company provides a fast and efficient galvanizing service to fabricators, manufacturers and specialised customers.
The quality of the galvanizing process is such that it protects steel for 30-40 years. Recent projects include galvanizing the support structure for the six bells at Abbeydore church, built in 1633.