Darwen, UK – Global leaders in bulk handling and processing solutions, AHS & AMP (Automated Handling Solutions/Advanced Material Processing), has announced the official opening of its new, 60,000 sq ft state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Darwen, Lancashire. The new site was officially opened by Mayor Councillor Brian Taylor of Blackburn with Darwen, who joined company leaders, customers and suppliers to mark this milestone in AHS & AMP’s continued growth and expansion.
This new facility is a significant upgrade from the company’s previous site in Clitheroe, now representing 25% of AHS & AMP’s global manufacturing capacity. Designed to serve customers across the UK, continental Europe, Africa and Asia, the Darwen site supports the company’s strategic focus on growth and global reach. The larger facility is a major step forward for AHS & AMP, allowing the company to improve lead times, increase efficiency and support its growing operations.
Ben Ayrton, managing director/VP operations supply chain Europe – AHS & AMP, said: “This isn’t just a new building, it represents the future of our business. We’ve outgrown our previous site and this state-of-the-art facility provides us with the space to increase capacity, streamline operations and deliver enhanced services to our customers. The improvements will allow us to implement lean manufacturing practices, reduce lead times and create a safer, more efficient working environment for our engineers.”
The Darwen facility will be used to manufacture equipment across AHS & AMP’s four key brands of Spiroflow, Cablevey, Marion and Kason. The expanded space includes dedicated build bays for each piece of equipment, greater storage capacity and improved areas for quality control. The investment will lead to enhanced production efficiency, with space allocated for pre-assembly, allowing engineers to complete tasks with fewer constraints.
The new test bay, covering 10,000 sq ft of the facility, will allow customers to witness AHS & AMP’s cutting-edge equipment in action, with one of every key product available for demonstration. The facility also features modern, employee-friendly amenities, such as spacious kitchens, breakout areas and improved meeting rooms, enhancing the overall working environment for the team. The Darwen facility follows the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Friedrichsdorf, Germany, in 2023, which focuses on pre-sales testing and aftermarket support. In 2025, further investment in the Darwen site will enhance the company’s testing capabilities, matching the offerings of the German test lab.
Located close to key transport links, including the M65, rail networks and nearby airports, the Darwen facility offers logistical advantages that support AHS & AMP’s supply chain and distribution network. The increased space also opens up recruitment opportunities, providing access to a larger talent pool within the region.
Shawn Heitz, CFO
Ben Ayrton, Managing Director
Brian Taylor, Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen
Seth Vance, CEO of AMP, President of AHS
Dan Chellew, Global VP of sales, marketing, business development
Tom Finnegan, Sales Director
AHS & AMP is committed to sustainability, and the Darwen site features energy-efficient solutions, including full LED lighting, hybrid heat pumps and a comprehensive recycling program. This ensures that the facility not only promotes operational efficiency but also aligns with the company’s long-term environmental goals.
As part of the opening event, well over 100 attendees were invited to tour the new facility, meet with key members of the AHS & AMP team, and experience firsthand the advancements in manufacturing and material processing that the new site offers. Ayrton added: “This facility is a testament to our commitment to innovation, quality and growth. We are excited to welcome our customers and partners to Darwen and look forward to a bright future.”
Learn more about AHS & AMP here.
