Following an investment in a new 82,000 sq ft manufacturing site, Huddersfield sealant manufacturer Polyseam is planning to accelerate its international expansion programme.

The new £2.3m facility incorporates research and development, planning, engineering and storehouse space in addition to three state-of-the-art manufacturing units. It follows an investment from the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership which awarded a £230,000 grant for new equipment.

Polyseam was established in 1993 and specialises in the development of sealants, adhesives and fillers, and also produces fire protection products for buildings. It has turnover of £15m and employs around 50 staff.

Already exporting to more than 40 countries with overseas trade accounting for 80% of sales, Polyseam will now embark on the next stage in its international expansion plans. The company has offices in Norway, Sweden and Poland plus a network of international distributors.

Kjetil Bogstad, chief executive of Polyseam, said: “Over our quarter of a century as a manufacturer, Polyseam has developed and maintained a market leading position, offering only the best quality in our brands.

“We continue to work smart in order to remain at the forefront of science and technology. As we adapt to the ever changing environmental, industrial and economic headwinds and pressures, we are continually developing innovative products and systems that equip our extensive customer base with the right tools to do the job effectively and efficiently.

“A big growth area for us is the export market with the quality of our products winning us customers in countries including Australia, New Zealand, India, Thailand and Vietnam.”

Polyseam is focussing on driving further growth with recruitment of new staff in areas such as research and development, planned.

He added: “Polyseam is extremely grateful to the LEP for the financial support the company has received to help fulfil this project and enable us to house such a state of the art factory facility.

“The LEP has also provided valuable advice through its Trade and Investment, and Skills Services teams, including skills planning, diagnostic and relevant courses.”

The LEP, working in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, has received funding through Leeds City Region Growth Deal – a £1bn package of Government investment to accelerate growth and create jobs across Leeds City Region.