PIH honoured for contribution to Burnley

Pipeline Induction Heat (PIH) has been awarded The Long Standing Contribution to Burnley Award by the council's leader, Mark Townsend, and chief executive, Mick Cartledge.

The pair toured PIH's 75,000 sq ft facilities and learned about latest developments underway in one of the world’s largest and leading pipeline ‘field joint coating’ companies.

Mark Townsend said: “This company is definitely a hidden gem. You might expect to find specialists in oil and gas pipeline coating technologies in the US, Russia or China, and surprised to hear that one of the world’s largest pipeline ‘field joint coating’ contractors is based in Burnley.

"We are delighted PIH has its world class manufacturing, test, R&D and demonstration facility in one of Burnley’s most established flagship business parks, from where it supports the global pipeline industry. This is another fantastic example of the range of world class businesses we have based in the town creating highly skilled jobs.”

Mick Cartledge added: “We were delighted to present the award to PIH to recognise the company’s commitment to both Burnley and to growing and developing its Burnley workforce. The company has adapted well to market conditions and you can feel the positive culture within the business when you are on site.

“It was fascinating to tour and great to hear about the work and the company’s commitment to upskilling its workforce, as well as its dedication to training locals in the various locations across the world where a project may be based.

“One country cited specifically was Angola, where the company employs local people and offers specific training, leaving them with qualifications and experience to better themselves once PIH has completed its scope of work. The company has also recently worked on the major TANAP project which included a 2,000km pipe that ran the entire length of Turkey."

Paul McShane, managing director, Pipeline Induction Heat said: “PIH didn’t originate in Burnley, it actually started in High Wycombe in 1988, and the company was approached by Burnley Council who were actively seeking to attract inward investment and promoting the opportunities in Burnley for growing businesses.

"The council approach worked, PIH was offered a grant to move to Burnley, the relocation took place and here we are today growing PIH in the town for the long term future.” “Geographically, Burnley has been an excellent location for us. Global clients are able to reach us easily and our loyal dedicated local workforce has very much helped grow the business."