A significant 20,000 sq ft unit at Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone has been occupied by a growing Blackpool business.
Willis and Thornley, recently acquired by the Jeremias Group, relocated to Pioneer House, enabling increased production and larger orders.
Business Expansion in Blackpool
A key 20,000 sq ft unit at Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone has been taken by an expanding Blackpool business. Willis and Thornley, recently acquired by the Jeremias Group, has moved into Pioneer House at the south of Blackpool Business Park. The company, which manufactures industrial chimneys and flues, has relocated from its original home on Cowley Road into the industrial unit formerly occupied by Lebus Engineers.
New UK Headquarters
The move allows the site to become the new UK headquarters for the German-owned chimney manufacturer Jeremias. The new unit is located five minutes from the M55 motorway. It offers ample warehousing space, enabling the company to increase production and handle larger orders.
Investment in New Equipment and Renovation
The company has retained five employees from the former Lebus Engineering team, raising its total headcount to 35. There are also plans to expand in the coming years.
Managing Director’s Statement
Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone Cllr Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Levelling Up (Place) at Blackpool Council, remarked: “This is a real success story for business in Blackpool.
Support from Blackpool Council
Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone is being expanded to help companies like Willis and Thornley grow locally. It offers sites for businesses to relocate or expand into Blackpool, where they can employ thousands of manufacturing and machine workers.
Enterprise Zone Expansion
In May this year, Blackpool Council launched a search for a development partner for a seven-acre site within the Enterprise Zone. The Eastern Gateway site has already been granted planning permission for employment purposes.
Future Development Opportunities
The development plots could accommodate units ranging from 15,000 sq ft to 75,000 sq ft. These units will be available from summer 2025 and are aimed at industrial and warehouse use.
The expansion of Willis and Thornley symbolises the growth and opportunities present at Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone.
With substantial investments and support from both Jeremias Group and Blackpool Council, the future looks promising for local businesses.