One of Gloucestershire’s leading employers and manufacturers has marked a major milestone in its continued growth after officially opening the first phase of a £5 million investment programme designed to increase production capacity, improve quality and strengthen support for the UK’s social housing sector.
Former High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, Julie Kent MBE, performed the official commissioning of the new manufacturing equipment at Premiere Kitchens’ Gloucestershire headquarters, celebrating a £3.25 million investment in advanced production technology.
The investment represents the first phase of a three-year, £5 million programme that began in 2024, following extensive research into the world’s leading manufacturing technologies.
The new production line increases Premiere Kitchens’ manufacturing capacity by up to 60 per cent, without increasing production hours, enabling the business to meet growing demand while continuing to deliver exceptional quality and service.
Premiere Kitchens has specialised in manufacturing kitchens for the UK’s social housing sector since 1989, working with housing associations, local authorities and social landlords across the country.
Unlike many larger manufacturers whose primary focus is private housebuilding or retail kitchens, Premiere has remained dedicated to the refurbishment and maintenance of existing social housing, alongside supporting new affordable housing developments.
That specialist focus has enabled the company to develop a deep understanding of the sector’s unique requirements.
Managing Director Andy Barham said:
“This investment isn’t simply about buying new machinery. It’s about ensuring we have the capacity, technology and quality standards to continue supporting social housing providers for many years to come.”
“Demand for high-quality replacement kitchens continues to grow, yet relatively few major manufacturers focus on this market. We’ve built our reputation over more than 35 years by understanding exactly what housing associations and local authorities need, and this investment reinforces that long-term commitment.
Our growth will in turn guarantee and create jobs and careers within Gloucestershire for many years to come and ensure Premieres legacy within the county”
Following an extensive global review of the market, Premiere selected German engineering specialist Homag as its technology partner.
The new manufacturing line includes an advanced automated panel cutting system and a state-of-the-art four-sided edge banding machine, delivering exceptional precision, efficiency and consistency while significantly reducing waste.
Sustainability formed a key part of the investment.
All timber waste generated during production is automatically transferred directly into Premiere’s onsite biomass heating system, providing heat and hot water for the facility. Electricity is generated from approximately one megawatt of rooftop solar panels, creating a highly efficient circular manufacturing process with no gas supply required.
Julie Kent MBE said:
“It was a privilege to officially commission this impressive investment. Premiere Kitchens demonstrates exactly the kind of innovative, sustainable manufacturing that Gloucestershire should be proud of. The company’s long-standing commitment to supporting social housing while investing in advanced technology is an excellent example of British manufacturing at its very best.”
