A Stoke-on-Trent-based trailer and body manufacturer has reported record turnover and profit, attributing its success to strategic streamlining, operational efficiencies and robust customer relationships.
Don-Bur (Bodies and Trailers) Limited has announced its best-ever financial performance, with turnover rising to £93.3 million in the year to 30 September, 2024 – an increase of 9.6 per cent on the previous year. Profit before tax rose by more than 50 per cent, up from £9.9 million in 2022/23 to £15 million.
The Adderley Green-based company says the results are due to focusing on large-batch orders that align with its business model and manufacturing strengths, boosting productivity while reducing engineering complexity and costs.
In the company’s strategic report, Managing Director David Burton wrote: “We have consciously streamlined our orderbook, exclusively taking orders only for work that best serves our business model and which we know will provide a world class product for our customers. This strategy has paid off again.”
The company invested in new machinery to improve efficiency and ended the year with a strong cash position of £27.1 million, underpinned by disciplined cash collection and stock management.
Don-Bur also reported modest reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions year-on-year, despite increasing production. Total gross emissions fell to 2,388 tonnes of CO₂e in 2024, down from 2,441 in 2023.
Despite the growth, the business flagged a number of risks, including the challenge of finding skilled workers, the impact of the rising living wage and National Insurance contributions, volatile energy prices and exchange rates, and the cost of materials.
The report stated: “We remain heavily dependent on being able to source appropriately skilled labour to produce our products to the required standards, and this challenge does not get any easier.”
Pay rises were implemented to offset rising living costs, while the company is increasing investment in middle management and training as part of a commitment to continuous improvement.
Don-Bur now plans to invest in a new large-format laser cutter to further enhance fabrication capabilities, and intends to continue improving internal systems, pay frameworks and branding.
