Sheffield-based Gripple is set to expand again, with plans for a new £2 million factory to make high-tech assembly machines.
The firm — famous for its wire joining device — is set to build a ‘state of the art’ Gripple Automation facility on a derelict site beside the River Don (near the Veolia incinerator).
Its planning application shows a building that combines the firm’s red-brick heritage with cutting-edge features such as a green-energy plant and a living green external wall.
If the bid is approved, construction could start as soon as August.
Gripple Automation (
www.grippleautomation.com) was set up four years ago to make machines that can assemble 60 Gripples in 1min with one operator.
It was soon building mini-production lines for other firms and expanded to 25 staff, outgrowing the premises on Hawk Street that it shares with sister company Loadhog.
Special projects manager Gordon Macrae said that a new factory is needed to keep pace with growth, and five jobs are set to be created initially.
“We wanted a flagship iconic building worthy of our reputation.
“It’s on the river and in a part of Sheffield that’s not been regenerated. We want it to be up there with the best.”