Facade specialist invests in new technology and upgraded facilities

Gillian Thomson

CUMBERNAULD-based architectural facades manufacturer MSP has announced a £250,000 investment in new technology and improved facilities.

The new acquisitions include a CNC-controlled Mayer beam saw and a second Rainer Eletek turret punch. The business said these machines will ‘dramatically improve’ the plant’s capacity, enabling it to provide clients with a wide range of non-flammable, bespoke façade systems. New air filtration and dust extraction systems have also been installed.

The investment has been facilitated by parent company Vivalda Group, which also owns the Prism Powder Coating and Pura Facades brands.

Gillian Thomson, branch manager at MSP, said, “Prior to this investment we suffered from a bottle neck – as we had four brake presses that were being fed by a single turret punch. With our new Rainer machine, this doubles our throughput, giving us much more capacity. Our new CNC beam saw is another vital investment as it enables us to accurately cut cladding board to length – a service we also provide to our colleagues at sister company Vivalda Scotland.”

MSP has also bought an additional fork lift truck to cope with increased workload. Changes to the factory’s layout include improved lighting, office refits and structural work on the building.

Gillian Thomson added, “We also took the opportunity to build a new staff canteen and open plan office. Previously, we were working in smaller, separate units, which didn’t help with communications across the different functions of the business. The open plan set-up has definitely made for a much more pleasant, productive working environment.”

Peter Johnson, chairman, Vivalda Group plc, said, “This investment represents a vote of confidence in our fantastic team in Cumbernauld who have pulled together in a difficult year for the whole of the country. This company has always been forward looking and with the growth in demand for non-combustible Class A fire rated solid aluminum cladding panels, this investment will enhance MSP Scotland’s UK-wide reputation for quality and product safety.”