TNB: Tell us about Jenks and Cattell.
J&C: We were founded in 1886, which makes us one of the longest established metalwork engineering companies in the UK.
Since 1985 we have been owned by Newship Group – a family owned business comprised of various manufacturing companies turning over circa £170m. They provide financial backing and support for our continuous improvement and investment.
We are based in Wolverhampton and employ 100 people, including five graduates and five apprentices.
TNB: So we know Jenks and Cattell is a metalwork business, but what is its speciality?
J&C: We provide a manufacturing service of metal stamping, laser cut fabrications and welding for both functional and mechanical assemblies.
We predominantly supply the automotive, defence, off-highway, mobility vehicles and commercial vehicle and bus sectors.
We are currently working on projects with some of our customers to develop parts for electric cars, trucks and buses.
TNB: Where might we have seen your work?
J&C: A recent project we’re particularly proud of though is the electric Porsche Taycan. We provided the metal stampings that harness the wiring and support the battery.
TNB: 2020’s been a challenging year. How’s it been for you?
J&C: As with every business we certainly struggled throughout April-July, but from August onwards all 38 of our office staff have returned from furlough and the majority are safely working in the office. 85% of our shop floor staff have also returned to work.
We have also been fortunate to secure a large press tooling resource project from one of our existing customers during the COVID period and we really benefit from having a diverse range of customers in various industries. This means we have lots of projects moving to production near the end of the year.
The negative effects of COVID-19 is still a concern though, as is and the uncertainty surrounding the future of Brexit, as 25% of our total sales are exported across Europe, Asia and South America.
TNB: It sounds though that there’s lots to be excited about moving forward?
J&C: Absolutely. We are currently working alongside two world-leading engine manufacturers who are investing in battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and that’re really exciting.
Running HGVs and buses on battery power is something we would never have thought possible only a few short years ago, but we are currently manufacturing metal assemblies for vehicles like this in the prototype stage of development and we expect production readiness soon.
Electric-powered trucks, buses and vehicles will soon be the norm on our roads and military sites and we’re proud that many of them will contain metal components manufactured by Jenks & Cattell.
Nick George, Sales Director
