"With the continuing expansion of global markets and a rising number of OEMs using Flexfab components as standard equipment, we felt the time was right for a manufacturing site in the U.K. that could provide a full range of design, testing and production services," said Managing Director Hugh Boyce.

"The new facility has been equipped with automated manufacturing equipment that allows us to produce components more efficiently than traditional manufacturing

techniques," Boyce explained. "The components suited to advanced manufacturing methods can be produced with greater cost-effectiveness and shorter turnaround," he added.

Boyce said that a key objective in establishing the new facility was to make design engineering and technical service more readily available to European customers.

"Our technical expertise is one of the things that sets Flexfab apart from contract manufacturers and other suppliers," he said. "We have the design- and application engineers to help customers solve problems in the most innovative and cost-efficient ways," he continued. "That translates to elastomer solutions which increase the value, quality and durability of our customers’ products."

With more than 35 years’ experience in the design and manufacturing of seals, expansion joints, hoses, connectors and bellows for high-performance applications, Flexfab components are produced to the most exacting quality standards.

In addition to its activities in the Automotive, Heavy Truck and Industrial markets, the company’s dedicated Aerospace operations provide highly engineered, top-quality connectors, seals and ducting products to a growing customer base that includes every major air frame manufacturer in North America, Europe, South America and Asia. These global giants rely on the design and performance of Flexfab components for their light weight, durability, flame resistance and long-term flexibility.

Flexfab supplies molded components in a number of elastomer constructions: silicone, fluorosilicone, fluorocarbon, neoprene, butyl, nitrile, urethane and EPDM. The firm also

provides extensive assembly capabilities and system design expertise, increasing their value as a partner to OEMs around the world.

In addition, the company's network of certified suppliers help simplify OEM production and reduce costs by providing machined, welded, extruded, cast or stamped metal components used as part of customer assemblies.

Flexfab Europe Ltd. is a member of the Flexfab Horizons International family of companies. They design and manufacture engineered components and systems for aerospace, automotive, heavy-duty truck and other industries. Products include seals, keypads, profile extrusions, hose, ducting and custom components using a wide range of elastomeric polymers and reinforcing materials. Headquartered in Hastings, Michigan, FHI currently has approximately 800 employees in five manufacturing sites in the United States and Europe, with warehousing in South America.