EuroWire September 2021

Focus On UK Flexibility to face global challenges

Pentre Group, a supplier of reels and drums, has faced numerous global chal- lenges in the cable and wire industry in the last 18months, but believes it has emerged stronger as a result. The uncertainty leading up to Brexit meant the company had to spend time making preparations and reassuring customers. The measures that were put in place resulted in no disruption to its supply into Europe. While the world has suffered with the COVID-19 pandemic, Pentre continued

production meeting government guidelines in its factories in the UK, Czech Republic and Spain. Health and safety procedures were put in place promptly, to ensure the safety of employees and customers. After consultation with all employees in the UK, the company moved to a four- day working week with longer working hours, which has benefitted employees’ wellbeing and mental health. An additional benefit was that the company on all sites,

could adapt to spikes in demand by allowing additional working time, if required, on Fridays. Shipping container shortages have meant Pentre Group has had to work collaboratively with rawmaterial suppliers and customers on the associated costs to ensure continuity of supply. The company expects there to be continued difficulty with the availability of raw materials until there is an increase in the supply of containers and container ships in the global market. It is, however, looking to maintain supply and achieve stability in pricing by adapting its purchasing strategy on raw materials and by having the financial resources to hold higher stocks. With a move towards greener renew- able energies and electrification, Pentre intends to invest to increase capacity and improve business performance. Its aim is to maintain consistent supply to wire and cable manufacturers. Pentre Group Ltd www.pentregroup.com

▼ Pentre aims to maintain supply during global upheaval