PLS enhances manufacturing efficiency through significant expansion
PLS (Passenger Lift Services), a Mobility Networks company, has simultaneously consolidated several sites and relocated to one, significantly larger premises, so that its efficiency to provide accessible vehicle lifts is enhanced.
PLS now based in Smethwick, West Midlands, is the UK-leading name in the design, manufacture and maintenance of powered lifts and ramps for accessible buses, coaches, ambulances and specialist vehicles. Regarded as the clear innovator in underfloor passenger lifts, PLS has delivered an unrivalled range of products and services to body builders, convertors and fleet specifiers since inception in 1990. Part of the new global Mobility Networks Group, PLS can now continue to pioneer in cutting-edge accessible vehicle solutions through its relocation to larger, more modern premises. This move has involved the amalgamation of three separate plants involved with fabrication and assembly, into one building providing over 32,500sqft of combined space. This will benefit all PLS clients on several levels including reduced lead times, enhanced project monitoring and faster availability to parts.
Mike Simmonds, CEO of Mobility Networks commented: “With a new streamlined strategy and as part of the global Mobility Networks Group, PLS is in prime position to lead the UK market in terms of accessible vehicle lift provision. PLS was already highly regarded in the vehicle sector in terms of engineering prowess and competitive lead times, however this recent relocation will heighten product quality and service efficiencies even further. Several major clients who were thoroughly impressed with the new premises have already visited us. They were especially interested in PLS’s heightened ability to track every finite detail of the production chain along with the proficient layout of the facility. PLS is proud to employee a 50-strong workforce of skilled engineers and technicians who combine hard working ethics, diligence and a passion for the Black Country’s manufacturing tradition. This team and I firmly believe that we are now located in the ideal premises to drive PLS innovations even further.”
Over a period of nearly 25 years, PLS has doubled in size approximately every five years and this latest move is the most significant yet. PLS is now located closer to junction 1 on the M5 so delivery and dispatch across the UK is even easier. The new premises house all aspects of the business from management, sales, finance and design on the mezzanine through to R&D, hydraulic pressing, two flexible production lines and purpose made racking on the ground floor. The additional space this new facility provides has given PLS the ability to increase its stock levels in terms of materials and parts. This will give quicker access to components for clients, PLS maintenance teams and the production line – resulting in enhanced service levels and improved turnaround schedules.
A new paint shop will be in operation on the site soon whilst the first floor will be the location for Mobility Networks operations that support the Whitstable headquarters. A centre of excellence for education is also under development so that expert training from the PLS team will be available to all relevant professionals in the accessible vehicle sector.
