Formwork distributor UniBlock hopes to employ 50 people as long term plan laid out

Fifty new jobs could be created in Scunthorpe after a specialist construction business swooped for an 18,000 sq ft facility as it gears up for manufacturing.

UniBlock Ltd, a company that has gone from start up in 2016 to become one of the UK’s biggest distributors of insulated concrete form products, is aiming to capitalise on its success on Queensway Industrial Estate.

Also known as thermal insulated modular systems, the blocks are used with cast-in-place reinforced concrete walls, floors and roofs.

Managing director Les Dawson, who hails from Lancashire, but launched the business from Gainsborough, said: “In the next three years, our aim is to expand and establish ourselves in Scunthorpe, delivering to multiple sites across the UK. With a strong demand for our products in the Humber region, Scunthorpe is the perfect location.

“We expect to be open for business at the beginning of July and have already made a handful of appointments so that we can expand the services we offer in the commercial, industrial and domestic sectors.

In the long term, we hope to create about 40 to 50 new full-time jobs – which would obviously provide a big boost to the local economy, especially in light of the cloud which is currently hanging over the town’s steelworks.

UniBlock Ltd traditionally imported most of its products, but the demise of a French supplier has seen it invest significantly in its own manufacturing equipment so it can launch this new venture in Dunlop Way.  It is one of the units formerly occupied by Bradbury Group, having made a high profile move across town earlier this year.

Mr Dawson said it was selected “due to the size of this unit and the combination of office, workshop and warehouse facilities it offers”.

“It also has an excellent infrastructure and supply network already in place,” he added. “All our products are embedded with steel and the fact we have been able to source this locally from SC4, a nearby supplier, has proven very helpful.”

Not only will this create new employment, it has also enabled UniBlock to massively reduce its carbon footprint.

Duncan Willey, the chartered surveyor who conducted the deal on behalf of PPH Commercial, said: “The fact North Lincolnshire offers an extensive and readily available workforce with a variety of experience in manufacturing and distribution is a massive attraction for ambitious businesses like UniBlock.

“Having worked closely alongside UniBlock during negotiations, they are clearly a very ambitious company with big growth aspirations. Clearly, this new trade unit will play a key role in their long-term aims and I wish them every success in the future.

“The recent news about British Steel has dealt a blow to Scunthorpe in recent weeks, but this much-needed jobs boost proves the town remains a very attractive proposition for new businesses and potential employers.”