Case study

PAB Coventry: new metal techniques bring big rise in turnover

A family business has seen turnover rise 33% and staff numbers by 65 after developing a new aluminium forming technique for car makers.

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PAB Coventry

Danny Wheldon, managing director, PAB Coventry

Sheet metal farbrication and engineering business PAB Coventry has developed a new aluminium forming technique that is producing new lightweight and strong material for leading car manufacturers.

PAB worked with fellow SME Impression Technologies,supported by feasibility study and collaborative R&D funding of £220,000, to develop the technique called hot form quenching.

It can produce complex shapes that are both light and strong – ideal for the automotive industry, where light weight means greater efficiency and lower emissions.

PAB expects to double turnover by 2019

PAB supplies some of the biggest names in the automotive, aerospace, rail, defence and allied industries, including Lotus, Aston Martin and Ford.

The business has seen its turnover rise 33% to £6.25 million in 2015-16. Staff numbers have risen by 65 and are expected to hit 100 by 2019.

PAB is now investing £1 million in new equipment. Based on current orders, it expects to double turnover by 2019.

Published 20 October 2016
Last updated 25 October 2016