What's Happening?
Avon Engineered Rubber, a manufacturing firm based in Maerdy, South Wales, has achieved ISO 50001 certification for energy management, marking a significant milestone in its domestic and international growth strategy. This certification, awarded by the
International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), recognizes the company's commitment to enhancing energy performance. The firm, part of the Bristol-headquartered Avon Group, employs over 100 people and exports its products worldwide. The certification process required Avon Engineered Rubber to demonstrate a track record of reducing energy consumption and to submit a three-year energy reduction plan. The achievement was spearheaded by Quality Systems Manager Huw Goodhand Johns and Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Manager Gemma Skelly, who led the team to pass the rigorous certification process without any minor non-conformances.
Why It's Important?
The ISO 50001 certification is a testament to Avon Engineered Rubber's commitment to sustainability and operational excellence. This endorsement not only enhances the company's reputation but also instills confidence in its growing customer base by demonstrating a serious commitment to energy management. The certification is part of the Avon Group's broader operational excellence program, which aims to achieve world-class status across its nine factories. This program includes multi-million-pound investments in new machinery and technology, which are expected to improve factory efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and support staff development. The certification also sets a benchmark for other companies within the Avon Group, such as Avon TSA, which is preparing for its own ISO 50001 audit.
What's Next?
Following the certification, Avon Engineered Rubber plans to continue its focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. The company has already invested £300,000 in cutting-edge extrusion technology and plant upgrades to support its growth. The certification also supports the Avon Group's goal of breaking through the £100 million annual revenue mark by 2030. Additionally, the success of the Ferndale plant in securing the certification serves as an inspiration for its sister company, Avon TSA, as it prepares for its ISO 50001 audit. The group is committed to continuous improvement and reducing waste, with initiatives such as using aerosol rubber waste to produce moulded waffle mats for the building industry.
