Taunton Fabrications | Somerset | United Kingdom
Steel Fabrication & Architectural Metalwork

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Publication: Construction Industry News

[POSTED: 29 September 2009]

Architectural metalwork specialists, Taunton Fabrications has firmly established itself as the leading supplier of architectural metalwork in the South of England. David Phelps, Chief Executive Officer, explains how the business, which was shortlisted as finalists in this year’s South of England heat of the National Business Awards, is benefiting from the continuous investment made throughout recent years.  

Based on the Galmington Trading Estate at Taunton, Taunton Fabrications was founded in 1992 by two of the current directors and works closely with all the major construction companies throughout the South and West.

It has specialised in the complete design, manufacture and installation of a wide range of steel fabrication and architectural metalwork for over 20 years and was even featured in the Channel 4 “Grand Designs” series. Products range from structural assemblies and frames to feature staircases, balustrading, balconies, walkways & escape stairs for residential, office, industrial, commercial, retail & educational developments.

“Being selected as a finalist for the National Business Awards has an immediate positive impact on our company profile and allows us to keep one step ahead of the competition,” says Mr Phelps.

“There is no doubt that trading conditions within the construction industry are tough at the moment. However, our policy is to always look for opportunities and adopt a positive attitude and being one of the finalists really helps to reinforce that approach.

“We’ve been careful with our profits and invested them wisely so we are in a strong position to get through the recession. We think ahead all the time, which is shown in the investment we have made throughout the business in recent years.

“In 2005 we invested substantially in new workshop facilities and offices, and we’ve redeveloped the whole site with our own purpose built manufacturing facility encompassing 24,0000 sq ft.

The company has worked for well-known construction companies including Sir Robert McAlpine, Cowlin Construction, and Moss construction working on prestigious projects such as the Princesshay and the O2.

“Our continual investment in 3D design software and training means that our contracts and design managers are confidently able to tackle the most technically challenging architectural metalwork. We also understand the importance of providing our clients with a management structure that will ensure that their projects are continually monitored and that agreed installation dates are met.

“Our belief in investing time and resources with engineers, architects and clients right at the start of each contract means that we are able to adopt a “right first time” approach throughout the entirety of the project. This focused approach was recognised by the judges when naming Taunton Fabrications as winner of the 2005 West of England Business of the Year Award.”

Schools, colleges universities and academies have seen unparalleled investment in recent years. With more focus on architectural design, Taunton Fabrications has become a leader in providing this sector with a hassle free solution to the architectural and secondary metalwork packages. It has carried out work on bridges and walkways, and external escape stairs and stainless steel balustrades for Swindon College and Elmfield student accommodation and Bath and Exeter universities.

“We’re now at the stage where we can look at high value work outside of the South West and because we can successfully carry out work in the public sector this is helping us maintain a healthy order book and turnover,” explains Mr Phelps. 

“Our main objective is to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and we’re now partnering with many of our key customers working closely with them at the tender stage so we can offer them a value-engineered scheme.”

Words by: Sarah Farrell