Historic Liverpool-based precision blade manufacturer Hardy UK has agreed a long-term lease on a new 22,066ft2 facility at Mersey Reach logistics park in Aintree, world-famous location of the annual Grand National National Hunt horse race.
Founded in 1854, Hardy UK designs and manufactures precision shaving and fleshing blades for the global leather industry. In 2015, Hardy was acquired by renowned Sheffield knife maker Arkote Ltd. Currently located on Fernhill Road in Bootle, the company’s employees are scheduled to relocate to Mersey Reach by autumn 2020. Hardy estimates the new facility will ultimately increase production capacity and open employment opportunities in both production, sales and administration positions.
Construction work on phase one started in December and is due to complete in August 2020.
Situated on a 13.5-acre site, the logistics park is strategically located on a prominent gateway route into the new Liverpool SuperPort, with fast access to major motorway network routes North and South.
Commenting on the lease, Hardy UK managing director, Peter Oxspring, said: “During the 2015 takeover the Board identified early on that, in order to sustain and then grow Hardy UK as the largest blade manufacturer in the leather industry, a relocation of premises would be essential.
“Having considered many options, both within the area and further afield, we finally decided that this substantial new development would be the perfect place to call home for the next chapter in the growth and development of Hardy UK.”
