Family firm to open major distribution centre

Family-run manufacturing business Melba Swintex is set to open a new distribution centre in Rossendale following a multi-million pound investment.

The company, which makes temporary traffic management products, will open the 57,742 sq ft facility later this summer.

Melba Swintex was founded in 1982 and has been built on decades of manufacturing heritage in Lancashire. It is a third-generation family business.

From early innovation in making traffic cones, through to the merger of Melba and Swintex in 2007, the company says it has continued to grow while staying true to its roots.

Company bosses say the new facility represents an important milestone for the business, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers in its sector and a global exporter.

The centre has been built to support increased demand for its products and to improve operational efficiency.

The aim is to strengthen Melba Swintex’s ability to serve customers across the UK and internationally while supporting future expansion.

The development of the new distribution hub was first outlined as part of the company’s growth plans in 2024.

Managing director Gregg Dawson said: “This new facility represents a significant milestone in our history.

“An investment which gives us the capacity, flexibility and infrastructure to better serve our customers, support further growth and continue building on our commitment to product innovation, quality and sustainability.

“We’re proud to bring this investment to Rossendale and excited about the opportunities it creates for our team, our customers and the wider local economy”.

The company employs around 230 people in Lancashire and more than 90 per cent of its products are manufactured from recycled materials.