Tatton MP, The Rt Hon Esther McVey, has paid a visit to one of our region’s most historic manufacturers to find out how their products are leading a thriving global resurgence in analogue photography.
HARMAN technology Ltd, manufacturer of the famous ILFORD brand of black and white photographic film, darkroom papers and chemicals are one of only 3 major manufacturers still in operation around the world and the UK’s only representative.
Managing Director Greg Summers explains, "The entire end-to-end process takes place right here in Mobberley. Our scientists and R&D teams create microscopic silver crystal emulsions that are coated onto film or paper substrates before being converted into the products that our customers use. The machinery we have here is highly specialised and, in some cases, takes up the footprint of entire buildings.”
The business has faced many challenges over the years, not least the introduction of digital photography that almost wiped out the entire industry, but more recently Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, have dominated the agenda.
"As 90% of our product is exported overseas, we had to carefully navigate the changes introduced by Brexit and were in regular contact with our distribution partners to ensure end customers were not impacted. Aside from a few logistical teething issues in the first couple of months this has been a huge success" says Giles Branthwaite, Sales & Marketing Director.
Greg adds "The pandemic has been an unprecedented challenge that all companies and individuals have faced. Our staff have been incredible, adhering to all government guidance and our own additional safety measures. Aside from a 10-week period of furlough between April and June 2020, the longest period our machines have stopped in over 30years, we have been fully operational."
The visit of Esther McVey, follows a recent visit of Mobberley Councillor Charlotte Leach and the company has been keen to highlight the success of the business which has seen them win regional awards for exporting amid growing sales.
Speaking about her visit, Esther said "I was amazed at the size and scale of the operation hidden away here in Mobberley. The process is fascinating, and I was impressed by the highly specialised and passionate staff. I was particularly taken by the forward-looking nature of the company and how they have adapted to change."
To find out more about the company and what they do you can watch this film https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXpoALotxf0 on their YouTube channel.
