Linecross flies the flag for the region in innovation and development

Linecross Composities is building on its reputation for innovation and challenging traditional methods of manufacturing vacuum-formed thermoplastic, polyurethane and injection moulded components.

Over the lasty 12 months the company has invested more than £3.1 million in its sites at Cannock and Rutland – where it employs a total of 300 people.

A significant investment has been made in three vacuum forming machines, including twin sheet forming capabilities, with further equipment including two new injection moulding machines with clamp forces of 2,300 and 900 tonnes, providing the ability to mould large automotive interior parts.

Efficiency and productivity improvements have also been aided with new robotic handling systems and an ultrasonic welding robot to support assembly operations.

Linecross Composites was formed in 2012 when parent company Linecross Ltd bought its competitor BI Composites out of administration. It provides clients in the automotive, leisure and speciality industries with a full design and manufacturing service – from initial design to ‘just in time’ supply direct to trackside from its site on Green Lane in Bridgtown.

As the business has expanded, so has its reputation for its commitment to technical innovation. As a result, it is now one of the industry’s leading manufacturers of engineered plastics and polyurethane components.

Its diverse client base includes luxury car makers Bentley and Aston Martin, JCB, London Taxis and caravan manufacturers Swift Group and Coachman - all leaders in their respective fields.

Over the years, Linecross has established a reputation across the industry for its commitment to innovation.

Its ability to combine traditional processes and technologies, such as injection moulding and soft foam PU, with its own innovative ideas and with new materials is enabling it to diversify into a number of new markets.

Chairman David Austin believes that innovation is the watchword for the business going forward: “Conventional thermo-forming has moved on greatly. These days the industry is about more than just stand-alone parts. We are now supplying assembled modules and using a variety of different processes at the same time.”

One of Linecross’ most high-profile collaborations to date is with the well-known Antler Suitcases. The company has developed a method to process new material, Armordon – a self-reinforcing polypropylene fabric, which exhibits exceptionally high impact strength, combined with low density - into a super light, super tough new suitcase called Atom.

David continued: “We have been at the forefront of advancements in the industry for 50 years and have established a culture of collaborative partnerships with our customers and other industry specialists, which has enabled us to support many iconic, global brands.

“We have a bright, dedicated team in place who are committed to remaining at the forefront of new plastic and composite materials and technology.”

Founded in 1967, the Linecross Group, which comprises Linecross Ltd and Linecross Composites, has grown from a microbusiness with just two employees, to one of the industry’s leading manufacturers of engineered plastics and polyurethane components.

Group turnover topped the £27m in the last financial year and is expected to exceed £30m during the current financial year.