Prince Andrew visited Teesside earlier this month to open Nifco UK’s new £12.8 million manufacturing facility.
The 61,451sq ft premises are adjacent to the company’s main factory in Eaglescliffe, near Stockton, which the Prince opened two years ago.
It provides the car-parts manufacturer with additional factory floor space needed to increase its capacity. The building will also house an R&D facility.
The Duke of York spent more than an hour visiting the company, which makes small plastic components used in the engines and interiors of cars made by Nissan, Ford, Honda, Toyota and Jaguar Land Rover.
During his time there, he spoke with managing director Mike Matthews and Nifco’s 24 apprentices.
Prince Andrew said: “It’s very clear that the company is investing in its future by encouraging young people to take up apprenticeships. The apprentices are not just on the shopfloor — they are throughout the business. This company is really helping UK manufacturing.”
Mr Matthews said that the company, which employs more than 400 people, had enjoyed a “busy and productive” two years since the Duke’s last visit.
“We have increased turn-over from £38 million to almost £60 million. With the new R&D facility, we’re expecting turnover and productivity to continue to rise. The second factory is a stunning new space, and a very visible sign of the speed at which the company is growing.”