Based in Wolverhampton, Advanced Lightning Protection Systems Ltd (ALPS) is a leader in lightning protection solutions, specializing in British-made Early Streamer Emission (ESE) systems. Established in February 2017 by Steven Drinkwater and Julian Johnson, ALPS is the only UK company to produce fully tested and certified ESE systems. These systems protect structures and critical assets from the devastating effects of lightning strikes, offering superior performance and sustainability.
To enhance their production capabilities, ALPS worked with the City Councils Business Growth Team to secure an UKSPF SME grant. The grant enabled the company to invest in a laser engraver to streamline operations, reduce outsourcing costs, and improve product customization.
Prior to securing the grant ALPS had identified inefficiencies caused by outsourcing engraving services for their lightning protection systems. This dependency resulted in high outsourcing and transportation costs, extended lead times, limited flexibility for custom orders, and reduced oversight of product quality. Working with the Councils Business Growth team the company was able to develop a strong business case for grant support by articulating how these constraints hindered productivity, increased costs, and limited the company’s ability to meet growing demand effectively
With the support of a 50% grant, ALPS were able to invest in a state-of-the-art laser engraver costing just over £4,000. As well as addressing the challenges experienced with the previous outsourcing route the investment enabled ALPS to reduce their carbon footprint by eliminating transportation costs and minimizing raw material usage.
Commenting Steve Drinkwater, Director of ALPS added, “This investment supports our long-term growth strategy. We will monitor and refine production workflows to maximize efficiency, explore further automation to enhance manufacturing processes, and expand our customer base by leveraging the improved production capabilities. With support from the Councils Business Growth team the grant has enabled the business to address key operational challenges, improve our production processes, and strengthen our market presence.”
ALPS expects the new laser engraver to boost operational efficiency significantly, laying the groundwork for increased turnover and additional job creation. Their enhanced capabilities will also strengthen their position in both domestic and international markets. They have not only resolved a critical operational bottleneck but also strengthened their position as a leader in the lightning protection industry. Future plans involve scaling production and expanding their product range to meet evolving market demands.