A FENCING manufacturer has secured its long-term future with a programme of waste minimisation.

Jackson's Fencing, which makes steel security fencing and timber fencing and gates has implemented "lean manufacturing" under the guidance of Business Link Kent.

Richard Jackson, managing director, said: "Lean manufacturing is all about minimising waste, whether that be in terms of time, effort or physical materials."

Ashford-based Jackson’s Fencing has secured its long-term future through an innovative programme of continuous improvement and waste minimisation.

Based in Stowting Common, the company, which manufactures steel security fencing and timber fences and gates, has implemented ‘lean manufacturing’ under the guidance of the Business Link Kent, the county’s independent advice agency.

Managing Director of Jackson’s Fencing Richard Jackson explained: “Lean manufacturing is all about minimising waste, whether that be in terms of time, effort or physical materials.”

The Ashford-based company became involved with Business Link Kent two years ago and used the agency to secure the help of a specialist from the region’s Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS).

Mr Jackson added: "Through workshops and a visit from a consultant we were able to identify areas for improvement where we could minimise waste.

"The flow of materials around the workshop is now more logical so less time is spent moving around and a lot of our tasks have been streamlined."

Jackson’s Fencing is part of Business Link Kent’s east Kent best practice network, an expanding group of like-minded businesses which share best practice.

Mark Knowlton, sector projects manager at Business Link Kent, who runs the network, said: "The staff at Jackson’s Fencing have all worked extremely hard and have made tremendous progress in transforming their factory.

"I’m delighted that they want to share their knowledge with other companies and would encourage any interested businesses in the area to get in touch."