Lord Lieutenant officially opens Halesowen firm's new £4 million facility

A&B Richardson Engineering, which specialises in custom die and tool manufacturing, proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art facility with Lord Lieutenant Derrick Anderson CBE and Mayor of Dudley, Hilary Bills.

The firm says the larger facility will enable A&B Richardson Engineering to continue producing the UK’s largest dies and critical machined components, while also providing space for growth in newer areas, such as welding development capabilities. 

The £4 million investment in the new site, complete with new advanced CNC machinery reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the UK defence and aerospace sectors, said Andy Richardson, Managing Director.

"The opening was a celebration of the remarkable journey A&B Richardson has experienced over the past 20 years, starting with just myself working in a 500 sq ft unit, and growing into the UK’s leading Tool & Die Manufacturer," he said. 

"We look forward to the continued growth and success this new facility will bring to both our team and the local community."

Acquired by Somers Forge in 2022 as part of a strategic expansion, A&B Richardson Engineering has experienced unprecedented growth over the past two years, underscoring its vital role in the manufacturing landscape. This expansion enhances its ability to support Somers Forge’s capacity and strengthens its role within the defence supply chain.

During his speech at the ceremony, the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands took a moment to acknowledge Managing Director,  Andy Richardson and all those involved in orchestrating the successful acquisition. This collaboration brought together A&B Richardson Engineering, Somers Forge and Folke Holdings, exemplifying the strength and richness of heritage found within family run businesses operating in  heavy engineering throughout the region.

"The scale and complexity of the parts being produced here at A&B Engineering are truly impressive," he said. 

"Its an inspiring example of how family run businesses can evolve to meet national manufacturing priorities."

Councillor Hilary Bills, Mayor of Dudley Borough, added:

“It was a pleasure to visit A&B Richardson Engineering today and to officially open the new premises for this fantastic business. A&B Richardson Engineering manufactures vital parts for Britain's aerospace and maritime industries. I was most impressed with the cutting-edge technologies that I saw today, and I think that this, once again, proves how our local businesses are at the forefront of industrial innovation.”