Major investment in AVK Aqua Gas with refreshed Corby site
State-of the-art Investment at the Home of the Gate Valve and Underground Hydrant 20-12-2024
AVK Aqua Gas Manufacturing in Corby has undergone its largest transformation since the site was purpose-built almost 40 years ago. The investment is part of an ongoing commitment to UK manufacturing by the leading supplier of valves, hydrants and fittings for the water and gas industries.
The site has seen a massive investment to revitalise the building and align it with the globally renowned AVK Group’s corporate standards. The project included a full façade update, window replacements, an upgraded reception area, a refreshed roof with new skylights and guttering, and enhanced car park facilities, complete with electric vehicle charging points.
Paul Race, AVK UK Manufacturing Director, highlighted the importance of the project. He said: “AVK has invested heavily this year across our various sites in the UK, including here at AVK Aqua Gas, which is part of the company’s strategic commitment to strengthening its manufacturing base in the UK. The building has been modernised and we’ve updated the façade to bring the Corby site firmly into the 21st century.
“While we’ve always focused on investing in plant and machinery, the building itself was starting to show its age. This latest project not only improved the aesthetics of the building but enhances the working environment for our employees and customers.”
New Shot Blaster
Over the years, the Corby facility has seen consistent investment to improve efficiency and operations, ensuring it remains a market leader in the production of high-quality valves and hydrants for the water industry. This includes upgrades to its plant and machinery, such as two new thread rolling machines introduced in recent years.
More recently, AVK UK has invested in a state-of-the-art tumble blast machine, replacing an existing long-serving model, which had been in operation at the Corby site for over 35 years. The new machine helps improve production and energy efficiency, with reduced processing times and maintenance costs, while promoting a safer and cleaner working environment.
Paul explained: “The new shot tumble blaster has a key role in our manufacturing process. Back in 2008, we invested in a fully automated conveyor system to move products to the blaster, which is crucial for adhering powder coating to the gate valves and fire hydrants we manufacture here, enhancing the overall durability and quality of our products.”
This latest investment at Corby complements the strengths of AVK UK’s other manufacturing facilities, including Syddal, in Hyde, and Staveley, in Chesterfield. Together, these sites create a robust UK manufacturing network, delivering precision-engineered valves and fittings that meet the highest industry standards while reducing supply chain emissions and delivery times for our customers. By combining our expertise across the UK and in the wider AVK Group global network, AVK UK reinforces its position as a leader in British manufacturing.
Commitment to UK Manufacturing
From seven employees in 1985, AVK Aqua Gas Manufacturing has grown into a workforce of 40 and is now one of Corby’s last remaining manufacturing sites. Despite the changing business landscape of the town – from steel production to distribution – AVK remains steadfast in its commitment to local manufacturing.
Paul said: “Investing in AVK Aqua Gas in Corby is about more than just upgrading facilities. It’s also about sustaining and creating jobs and contributing to the local economy. Corby’s central location, with easy access to major motorways and several airports, makes it an ideal distribution point for our products. It allows us to ship quickly and efficiently to our customers across the UK and beyond.
“We manufacture and supply high quality products and solutions, and we expect our facilities to reflect that when our customers, colleagues, and partners are here. Quality starts at the front door.”
He added: “This investment is not just for today. It’s about ensuring AVK UK is at the forefront of high-quality manufacturing in the UK for years and decades to come.”
