Gloucestershire employer Lister Shearing, which designs and manufactures animal shearing and clipping products, has confirmed that it is relocating to larger, more modern premises in Stonehouse, securing 80 jobs and paving the way for continued development of the business.
The company, which has been based at Dursley in Gloucestershire since its inception in 1909, has acquired the freehold of a 43,000 sq ft modern production and office building located at Stroudwater Business Park for an undisclosed sum. With the help of its parent company the Wahl Clipper Corporation, it plans to create a world-class manufacturing unit on the site which will be fully operational by July 2014.
Alun Williams, Lister Shearing’s managing director, commented: “After a major review of relocation options across the country, and thanks to financial support from Stroud District Council, we have decided that the long-term interests of the business and our staff are best served by relocating to Stroudwater Business Park.
“We have major plans to develop and extend our product range and have chosen our new location strategically to ensure we remain competitive in the global marketplace.
“Stroud District Council has given us important support to make this move.”
Property consultants Alder King acted on behalf of Lister Shearing in the acquisition. Adrian Rowley, partner at Alder King’s Gloucester office, said: “Gloucestershire has a long association with manufacturing industry and it is very pleasing that, following a comprehensive search across the county, we have successfully secured this building for Lister Shearing which will allow them to remain close to their roots and safeguard manufacturing jobs.”
The move has been supported by Stroud District Council. Chief Executive David Hagg said: “We are delighted that Lister Shearing has chosen to stay in the district. Jobs and growth are key priorities for the council. Keeping Lister’s local will preserve and help employment in the district.”
Leader of Stroud District Council Geoff Wheeler, who was also a former mayor of Dursley, added: “Whilst it is sad to see Lister Shearing leave Dursley, we are pleased that they are moving to a location close by. We understand that the move to Stonehouse will strengthen the company’s future prospects and wish them and their employees continued success for the future.”
Chris Agius, Partner at Harrison Clark Rickerbys, has worked closely with the management team at Lister Shearing Equipment Limited for a number of years. He said: “We are delighted to have been able to support such a strong local business in its move to new premises, helping it to continue its growth in modern surroundings, whilst retaining a strong presence in Gloucestershire.”
The company’s confirmation of its move from its Littlecombe site in Dursley follows Lister Petter’s recent announcement of its relocation to a new purpose-built site at St Modwen’s Quedgeley West Business Park.
As well as agency services, Alder King is also providing Lister Shearing with building consultancy advice on its new property.
