Transport & Logistics International Volume 14 Issue 3 | Page 81

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Montracon
“ Chassis go through a shot-blast tunnel on their side, then rotate to clear residual shot, before moving into primer coating. We use a paint system that cures at relatively low temperatures rather than the 60-to- 70 degrees typically required, which is a considerable efficiency gain. Building on the £ 4.5 million worth of investment back in 2017, Montracon will continue to invest in the facility in Doncaster to improve trailer output. Our welding assembly jigs rotate a full 180 degrees, so welders are always working in the horizontal position rather than welding vertically. We also have an automated machine that fabricates our main I-beam rails. It’ s loaded by crane and then runs the full length of the rail unattended.” With the plant running effectively, the business’ current focus is on investing in its people rather than equipment, specifically to embed lean manufacturing principles more deeply.“ It’ s a continuous improvement culture,” states Paul.“ It never stops.”
As the company looks forward to its 50th anniversary next year, Steve suggests Montracon’ s sustainability is down to two key factors:“ The product range and customer loyalty; they go hand in hand.” That loyalty has been built over decades of supplying operators across a wide range of sectors, from general haulage to specialist transport applications. By maintaining long-term customer relationships and continuously refining its product offering, Montracon has established a reputation for reliability in a highly competitive market. As the business enters its next chapter, those strong foundations provide confidence that future growth can be achieved while preserving the qualities customers have come to expect.
Paul adds:“ Customers keep coming back year after year. We’ ve built a strong reputation, and the product itself is robust. Our curtainsider is competitive on weight against rivals, but I believe we have the edge on structural strength. I say that as a qualified design engineer, not simply as an executive director
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