MP visits award-winning local manufacturer

Arundel & South Downs MP Nick Herbert visited leading local loud manufacturer Turbosound last week and was given a tour of their factory and offices.

Turbosound, who are based in Partridge Green, are one of the world's leading designers and manufacturers of professional loudspeaker systems.  The company  provides systems for major international pop stars and prestigious permanent installations around the world.

Turbosound, who have won the Queen's Award for Export Achievement twice in ten years, asked Mr Herbert to consider them for the 'Made By Britain' project under which MPs being asked to name a product that is manufactured in their constituency.

The aim of the scheme, which is being promoted by the Associate Parliamentary Manufacturing Group, is to demonstrate the diversity and comprehensive nature of contemporary British industry.

In November last year the Government also launched a 'Make it in Great Britain' campaign which aims to transform the image of modern British manufacturing and raise awareness of its importance for the economy.

The UK is one of the world's largest manufacturers and the sector contributes £140 billion a year to the economy.

During his visit, Mr Herbert was not only shown the manufacturing process of a loudspeaker system from start to finish, but also had the opportunity to listen to the quality of the newest technology being tested for future speaker ranges.

Speaking after the visit, Turbosound's Managing Director, Simon Blackwood, said: "We were delighted to host Nick at our UK manufacturing centre as part of the 'Made By Britain' initiative.

"Whilst we may be a small enterprise, we have a long and rich history of technology innovation that places our brand at the premium position in the world market.  I hope the visit gave Nick a grasp of why we proudly make in the UK."

Mr Herbert commented: "I was fascinated to visit Turbosound and it was great to see a local company competing - literally - on the international stage.

"I think there's a tendency to talk down manufacturing in Britain, yet we are the sixth largest manufacturer in the world and, after Germany, the largest in Europe.

"Advanced manufacturing is a critical part of the drive to rebalance the economy, so I was particularly pleased to see that even in the rural South Downs we have successful businesses which are contributing to that aim."

Ends

Notes for Editors

1. Photograph attached, Nick Herbert MP with CEO/Managing Director of Turbo Sound, Simon Blackwood.

2. For more information about Turbo Sound, please visit: www.turbosound.com

3. For more information about the Made by Britain project, please visit: http://www.policyconnect.org.uk/apmg/made-by-britain

4. For more information about the Government's campaign to promote manufacturing industry, please visit: http://makeitingreatbritain.bis.gov.uk/.