King Highway – MPs discuss sector challenges on visit to King HQ

Market Harborough MP Neil O’Brien and Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride visited The King Group of Companies recently to hear first-hand about the opportunities and challenges facing UK manufacturing SMEs.

Established in Market Harborough in 1962, King employs around 100 people at its Riverside site. Best known for its range of heavy-duty trailers, the business designs, manufactures, sells and maintains a range of specialist transport equipment across industries such as highways, rail, defence and nuclear. 

During the visit, both MPs toured the workshop to see specialist products destined for several key markets including military, nuclear and rail maintenance, and a newly developed facility for the welding and fabrication of aluminium and stainless-steel products to standards demanded by the nuclear industry.

The senior management team also outlined the pressures currently facing manufacturers, from increased operating costs to difficulties recruiting skilled labour. Despite this, King reinforced its ongoing commitment to local job creation, diversity and the development of practical skills through its apprentice academy.

James Richmond, Managing Director, commented: “We were pleased to welcome Neil O’Brien MP and Sir Mel Stride MP and showcase the quality work happening every day at our Riverside workshop. 

“It’s a challenging time for British manufacturing SMEs, but our commitment to delivering for customers hasn’t changed. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to share our experiences and discuss how government support could help businesses like ours continue contributing to the local economy and to vital national infrastructure.”

For further information visit www.king.uk.com or email Charlie Styles (Head of sales, Commercial and Defence) at charlie.styles@king.uk.com.