BCW takes on anodising operation for Lotus Cars

BCW Manufacturing Group has taken over the operation which anodises aluminium chassis components for Lotus sports cars.

The Burnley company will run the Lotus Lightweight Structures Anodising (LLSA) plant in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, which Lotus has operated itself since 2009. 

The move will allow Lotus to focus on core business operations, including the launch of its new model, the Lotus Amira.

Dr Andy Wilson, managing director of BCW Treatments, will assume responsibility for the site.

Claire Whelan, managing director of the Ansuka Group, which is the holding company of BCW Manufacturing Group, said: "We are pleased to secure Wellingborough and its current workforce, the site will more than double our anodising capacity.

"Having a Midlands presence is strategically important to our long-term vision in BCW’s growth, Wellingborough now enhances and strengthens BCW capabilities. With the 20 jobs already in Wellingborough, this grows the BCW group to in excess of 300 staff, additionally our manufacturing footprint has grown to 310,000 sq ft across the UK.”

Carl Elston, executive director – quality, Lotus Cars, said: "We are pleased to pass the anodising business over to BCW, which will give us the flexibility and efficiency improvements that go hand-in-hand with the planned production of the Lotus Emira.

"When we pioneered the use of extruded, anodised and bonded aluminium in the automotive industry, starting with the Lotus Elise in 1995, it was a technology that benefited from low volumes. Now, with our advanced new sub-assembly manufacturing operation in Norwich, our new assembly facility at our sports car HQ in Hethel, Norfolk, and with BCW’s help, we can increase our vehicle production volumes substantially."