Clearview National May 2015 - Issue 162 | Page 25

INDUSTRYNEWS Turning from Century to Century »»125 years of manufacturing experience and three generations of ownership from the same family, since the 1940’s is the reason why FK Moore can claim to be one of the UK’s specialist manufacturers of screw coverheads and glass fittings for the glass industry. Clearview talked to director, Paul Farrant about FK Moore’s plan for the company’s future and how they are repositioning themselves to develop more new products for the glass industry. “FK Moore has been turning brass components since 1890. Originally based in the heart of London on the Old Kent Road, my grandfather joined forces with the Moore family not long after the second world war and by the mid 60’s the whole manufacturing unit was relocated to a purpose built site at Ramsgate, a totally different environment from the smog of the city. “With the increase in retail development, the 1970’s we saw the business increase its product sales to the shopfitting market, producing a large number of brass-turned coverheads, screws, spacers and fixings. “In 2010, my father Bob retired. At the same time, Michael Moore a descendent of the Moore family also retired, being the last of the Moore family members to have interest in the business. The two departures launched me to the helm of the business, a role which I took on with fortitude. ‘We are able to work alongside customers and where visible meet those bespoke needs’ “With the rapid growth of retail development sites during the 70’s and 80’s, we developed new products towards this market. Manufacture in the UK was a huge plus for us, and helped us grow this market allowing us to be more flexible than our competitors and give our customers an off-the-shelf and personal service, when it was needed. “Being able to listen to customer’s individual needs and respond quickly is also a major selling point for the type of products we offer. We are able to work alongside customers and where viable meet those bespoke needs; this is where most of our product development has grown from.” Paul FG2