Do we still have in Britain electrical companies that not only design their products but also manufacture them in this country? And without importing all components from the Far East? Well, a Yorkshire AV furniture manufacturer Off the Wall proves that this is possible. The company’s founders and directors source all components from local suppliers and exercise total control over the design and manufacturing of its products.
“It’s the attention to detail which is key in our products,” they told me. Perhaps it’s not surprising that they have worked with brands such as Bang & Olufsen and Sony. “When we tell people that all our products are made in Bradford some say: we didn’t think that anything is being made there anymore,” commented Oliver Mitchell. Perhaps such companies are the endangered species and should be state protected?
I hope that you’re finding our new column – ‘An independent point of view’ – an interesting and stimulating read. We launched it to hear the views of the leading figures of the independent sector on the state of the industry and the independent business.
This month John Hutchinson shares his opinions (and passions) on the impact of the internet on the industry and predicts how it is likely to shape the independent electrical business. He also points to the key reason that would allow bricks & mortar retailer to compete with online traders: a fair price from suppliers. A compelling read!
The ‘independent column’ is a forum for all of you to express your views on the issues that affect you and your business. Please get in touch with me to have your say.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a good for business New Year from the whole team at IER.
