Bilston firm Excalibur Manufacturing Solutions marks first decade

Excalibur Manufacturing Solutions was started in 2003 by owner and managing director Richard Gilbert.

The company in Bankfield Road specialises in sheet metal work and vending machine refurbishment.

Excalibur, which employs 36, has its origins in one of the Black Country's most famous companies – GKN.

After GKN Sankey Vending was sold to Italian vending group N&W Global, N&W decided to reduce its manufacturing operations in the UK.

Mr Gilbert, saw a gap in the market and Excalibur, which has grown to have an annual turnover of £2.5 million, was formed.

It is split into two divisions - a sheet metal manufacturing section and a section that specializes in vending machine maintenance and upgrading.

The site is equipped with a CNC punch press, forming presses, a powder-coat plant, welding facilities and wet spray booths and the key skills of its staff are used across both sides of the business.

Commercial, business and logistics planner Ryan Harper said: "We are currently looking to grow the vending machine refurbishment side of the business and have taken exciting steps over the last couple of years to ensure this becomes a reality.

"Key roles have been recruited including a new quality manager, production manager and myself to drive the business forward within the current climate.

"However, with companies tightening their purse-strings and with 'green awareness' at its peak, we believe the time has never been so apt for prolonging the life of vending machines."

Mr Harper said Excalibur was planning ways to celebrate the 10th anniverdary including a charity event.