Chadderton-based Ultimate Products, the owner, manager, designer and developer of an extensive range of value-focussed consumer goods brands, has invested £1.8 million in transforming the fourth floor of its headquarters.
Of this, more than £1m is being spent with Oldham companies, a major boost the borough’s economy in the pandemic times.
The expansion at the Manor Mill in Victoria Street will see office capacity grow and bringing additional employment opportunities to Greater Manchester, specifically the local Oldham area
“Providing local jobs for local people brings substantial benefits to Ultimate Products because of the increased retention it brings and the wealth of talent that there is in Oldham,“ the group’s Human Resources and Operations Director Craig Holden told Business Edge.
He added: “Our plans provide additional opportunities for growth, as well as a contemporary and city-centre feel in the heart of Oldham.
“Existing employees will benefit from an improved working environment, focussing on increasing natural light, space and zoned workspaces that suit the fast-paced and innovative nature of the business.”
Ultimate Products is spending more than £1 million with local businesses, boosting the local economy and bringing substantial products to local contractors.
These include The Jordon Group, Mercian Electrical, Discounted Plastics, HNA Architects, Ligero Design, Kenyon Paints, George Hill Timber, Holroyds, Hire it Hire and Cracking Racking.
Choosing to support the local supply chain is not only cost effective but also reflects Ultimate’s belief in quality and reliability of local suppliers, says Mr Holden, adding: “In deciding to spend this money locally, Ultimate Products also aims to support the construction industry in Oldham during these turbulent times for the sector.”
One of the major suppliers is Mercian Electrical, responsible for the electrical, lighting and data installation of the project. Director Nick Millington said: “I have been working with Ultimate Products for a few years now on various smaller projects across both Manor and Heron Mills
“When I heard about this project, I was really keen to get involved and was pleased to be invited to tender. It is fantastic to be a part of a project that is supporting the local community, whether it be jobs, careers or working on large scale projects.”
Colin Hulme of Ligero Design commented “We are pleased to be involved in Ultimate Products modernisation project of Manor Mill. Its fantastic to see an environmentally conscious and forward thinking company incorporating the latest energy saving and highly efficient LED lighting products into their project. They have also demonstrated the vast variety of businesses available in Oldham, by investing in the local area and economy.”
Tony Tibbott, Director of Discounted Plastics, added: “We are delighted to be working with Ultimate Products and help future proof an iconic building in Manor mill so that it can continue to be used for modern times. It is also good to know that UP are doing their best to keep funds within the local area by using Oldham businesses for these types of projects.”
Ultimate Products has enjoyed strong growth in recent years, leading to the decision to renovate and develop their existing office spaces based at Manor Mill.
Michael Brown, director of HNA Architects added “The project at Manor Mill has been a wonderful example of a successful and growing Oldham company recognising that other Oldham businesses can provide everything needed to help it improve its historic premises and the quality of accommodation for its staff. Ultimate Products has been an advocate for local talent throughout the project and HNA Architects are proud to have been part of the team. “
Mr Holden continued: “As a company we are aware of our responsibilities to the community as a long-standing and significant employer in the region and we are delighted to be in a position to be able to keep more than £1 million of the large-scale refurbishment project within the local economy by choosing Oldham-based suppliers.”
A large portion of the company’s workforce comes from the Graduate Development Scheme. Hoping to continue as a hub for home grown talent, the renovation plans include a training theatre, collaborative learning spaces and informal social spaces to attract talented and forward-thinking individuals to choose Ultimate Products, where they are able to nurture and grow young talent into the next leaders.
Ultimate Products Group Managing Director Andrew Gossage concluded: “We are very proud to be a part of the Oldham community. We have worked to support local charities and initiatives throughout COVID–19 and will continue to do so.
“Deciding to renovate our offices and expand, bringing new jobs, training and development opportunities is another step in the growth of the business. Keeping £1 million of the spend within Oldham further demonstrates our commitment to the local area, its economy and its people.”