Leading autoclave manufacturer LBBC Technologies' new manufacturing facility has been officially opened by Adrian Allen OBE, commercial director of the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre with Boeing.

Mr Allen said: "I'm honoured to be part of this day for such a prestigious world leading manufacturer at the forefront of developing new technologies, investing in the future of process knowledge and skills."

Leeds-based LBBC has invested £1.5 million on the new facility, including a £130,000 grant from Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership's business growth programme.

Managing director Howard Pickard said "This new facility is just fantastic for us and is a major investment in the future of the business enabling us to continue to grow, develop new technologies and expand further into new markets."

LBBC can trace its history back to 1876, beginning life as the Leeds and Bradford Boiler Company. Howard and Robert Pickard are the fifth generation of the Pickard family to run the company.

In addition to being used in the composites sector, LBBC Technologies products are used in investment casting and pressure containment.

Guests at the official opening got the chance to see the extensive research and development work LBBC is carrying out with organisations such as Rolls-Royce.

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AMRC Commercial Director Adrian Allen OBE (centre) opens LBBC Technologies' new manufacturing facility, with LBBC director Robert Pickard, left, and managing director Howard Pickard.