Work has been completed on a new factory extension and
new specialist manufacturing equipment have been added as part of Chieftain's latest investment programme.
The new equipment includes the largest robotic welder for trailer manufacture in the UK and Ireland and is installed at the company's headquarters in Co.Tyrone.
The introduction of this robotic welder to Chieftain allows the performance of first-class precision welding and facilitates the execution of complex tasks whilst adhering to the customers’ requirements.
The programme also included the construction of an impressive three storey office block, state of the art painting facility and an additional 20,000 Ft2 assembly and stores workshop.
The paint facility consists of four separate booths that enable Chieftain to paint four different colours of trailer at any one time.
Extraction fans have been installed in each booth in order to regulate the air quality and temperature, reduce migration of dust and ensure the best overall finish possible.
In July 2007 Chieftain purchased new premises situated in Stoke-on-Trent, England to enable the firm to successfully increase their capacity in order to meet the demand of existing customers in the UK and Europe.
The new premises are located close to the main transport links and will allow for better communications and delivery services to the UK market.
Chieftain has also invested in the research, design and development of the “Chieftain Mountaineer.”
The Chieftain Mountaineer is a trailer mounted forktruck that facilitates the ease with which goods and materials can be delivered from origin to their final destination.
The Mountaineer is attached to the trailer during the transportation of the materials. Once the cargo is delivered, the truck driver can unload it independently and not have to wait for anyone to help. The truck driver just disengages the forklift from the truck, unloads the cargo, reconnects the forklift, and is free to leave.
This idea originated after detailed market research within the Chieftain sales network proposed that they should sell these trailer mounted forktrucks with a Chieftain trailer as a complete “turnkey” solution to their customer needs. A new “value added” concept within the marketplace.
This investment programme has been very significant as it has enhanced Chieftain’s overall manufacturing capabilities.
Chieftain take pride in the fact that their factory and processes are state of the art and are continuing to recruit and develop people with the skills that they need for the future. Chieftain is committed to the production of high quality products at competitive costs in a flexible and supportive working environment.