Grand Opening of Bernhard new factory and training facility

A two year building project, a stack of vision and a huge commitment to the business sees the opening of the new Haverhill manufacturing and training
facility for Bernhard and Company.

This major project was conceived and driven by Company Chairman, Stephen Bernhard and he is thrilled with the results, "We started our business way back in the early 1800's and it's grown year on year, in the same group of ancient Victorian buildings in the town. We really had to expand the manufacturing space, and up-grade the facilities. The training and education side of our business is growing all the time, so we needed a dedicated area for that as well as a demonstration area for user and staff training.

This extensive new building is great to work in, is super efficient, and offers us marvellous training and demonstration areas with dedicated R & D capabilities and plenty of office, admin and meeting space.

This move is a massive step for a small British company to make in the global turf industry and our commitment to the business and to the industry is clearly demonstrated by such a huge investment."

"The building was designed to a very high spec." Manufacturing Manager, Shaun McCarthy said. "It is efficient and eco friendly and is light and airy to work in. It was important for us to have flexible space, and the design can be adapted from a cellular structure into a linear very easily. This will allow us to adapt to the changing needs of the market, if need be - but we also wanted to incorporate something of our heritage, so the reception area reflects a hint of the old Victorian sheds. The effect works well.

Today's official opening is a significant marker in the history of Bernhard and Company. After many years at our original site, we now have this impressive facility to grow into. Our Suffolk team are already enjoying the benefits."

Stephen continued, "The day will celebrate our close connection with many friends in the industry. Our sales teams from around the world will be here, along with senior executives, Associations, representatives from BIGGA, FEGGA and AGCOA, leaders and owners of the US and European Course Associations. We are also delighted to welcome industry friends, the greenkeeping and course owners fraternity and members of the press, many of whom we have worked with for over 30 years. "

The formal opening (on 18th October) was jointly performed by well-known and highly respected golf industry figures, Pat Finlen from the Olympic Club in San Francisco, and Peter Todd, Director of Golf Operations at the London Club, and previous Chairman of BIGGA.

Stephen finished, "Our machines lead the world in mower sharpening globally. We now look forward to working out of this impressive home. Despite all the economic challenges that we face as an industry, we moved into this building with confidence in the market and we are determined to grow the business in these challenging times. "

BERNHARD AND COMPANY LTD
BERNHARD COURT • BILTON ROAD • RUGBY • ENGLAND • CV22 7DU
TEL +44 1788 811600 • FAX +44 1788 812640
E-MAIL info@bernhard.co.uk • WEB www.bernhard.co.uk