West Midlands law firm FBC Manby Bowdler LLP has advised on a major expansion at a Black Country 4×4 and pick-up vehicle accessory manufacturer and distributor.
Auto Styling Truckman is investing more than £250,000 in a new manufacturing facility at units 1a and 1b Hurst Business Park, Pedmore Road, Brierley Hill, adjacent to its current 12,000 sq ft base.
Andrew Wynne, a partner in the Wolverhampton Commercial Property Department at FBC Manby Bowdler, advised on the 10 year lease on the 15,000 sq ft of manufacturing space where the company will make its famous Truckman branded pick up hardtops.
Established by managing director Mike Wheeler in 2002, Auto Styling Truckman has an annual turnover of £6 million and presently employs 31 people. Selling mainly to major pick-up truck manufacturers and car dealerships in the UK and Europe, as well as to the general public through its website and showroom, the company offers accessories for more than 700 4×4 and pick-up vehicle variations.
The new space will enable the company to continue at its present 15% – 20% annual growth by extending its manufacturing facilities and bringing some processes in-house.
“Manufacturing in the UK means that we can control quality, logistics and price, and respond to customer requests quickly and flexibly, all of which enhances our service,” says Mr Wheeler.
“This is a major investment, which will allow us to expand our European sales.”
FBC Manby Bowdler has advised Auto Styling Truckman since its inception, advising on the establishment of the business, the acquisition of the Truckman brand and a number of property leases.
Mr Wheeler continues: “Andrew and the team at FBC Manby Bowdler have been great. As usual they have ensured that we achieved exactly what we wanted with this new property.”
Mr Wynne said: “Auto Styling Truckman is another shining example of a growing, entrepreneurial Black Country company which succeeds by manufacturing locally to provide excellent service to its customers.”
With 35 partners, FBC Manby Bowdler is one of the largest law firms in the West Midlands and the largest in Wolverhampton. The firm also has offices in Willenhall, Telford, Shrewsbury and Bridgnorth.