Fence manufacturer shows gateway to growth by creating 45 jobs

First Fence, the Swadlincote-based leading manufacturer and supplier of security and temporary fencing, has posted turnover growth of 35% to £26m – and is set to create 45 jobs.

Founded in 2010, the firm says it will grow by same margin over its next financial year between February 2022 and 2023 as it prepares to open its latest depot in Nottingham.

Terence Smith, the company’s group finance director, said: “The growth we have experienced has largely come from our current markets and the fact that we have been able to open two new depots over the past few years, with plans to open more in the coming years to supplement our depots in Derbyshire, Tipton, Bristol, Essex, and Glasgow.

“Our new Nottingham branch will enable us to take advantage of the huge opportunity within our traditional palisade fencing and temporary security fencing markets.

“We’re fortunate that our operation hasn’t been impacted too much by COVID-19. Looking at the industries our customers operate in, such as events and infrastructure, the reality is that they were impacted at the very start of COVID, but have recovered well since and continue to do so.

“We have also invested in increasing our large stock holding which has allowed us to react and still get products out the door despite the issues that have been faced with importing products into the UK.

“We hold enough strategic stock that we’re able to deliver to our customers the next day. That has played a significant part in the business’ natural and organic growth, as has our website which has allowed us to take advantage of the eCommerce market.”

The opening of the new Nottingham depot during the first half of 2022 has been described as an “important” move in First Fence’s ongoing growth strategy.

Smith, who previously held positions at local companies Rolls Royce, JCB, and Brush Power Distribution, added: “We currently have a hub in Tipton where some of our product is distributed to the other depots. Due to the high demand and business growth in the region, it has become important for us to expand. The Nottingham depot will help service the whole of the Midlands.

“We will also be recruiting a full team to work there, up to 15 people across a range of activities. We have already hired a depot manager, but for them, it will be a brand new project during an exciting time for the business.”

As part of that depot opening and growth plans, First Fence is also undertaking a recruitment drive.

The company is currently recruiting for more than 30 roles across all of its business functions, including legal resources, recruitment, sales, customer service, IT, forklift drivers, yardsmen, and HGV drivers.

“Our only limitation is our own human resource, hence we’re on a big recruitment drive,” Smith added.

“We want First Fence to be a great place to work. Getting all of this right is important in our goal to attract and retain the best talent possible as we go on this growth journey.”