Witney: Prime ministerial opening for Oxford Products expansion
The grand opening ceremony for Oxford Products’ impressive new facilities was boosted by the appearance of special guest prime minister David Cameron to cut the ribbon.
The UK's leading supplier of motorcycle and cycle accessories, Oxford Products sells exclusively to trade customers in the UK and successfully exports to distribution partners worldwide.
Over 100 VIP guests – a mixture of customers, suppliers and friends of the business, from as far afield as Australia, Canada and Korea – gathered to help celebrate the official opening of the company’s new 100,000 sq ft head office in Witney, Oxfordshire.
The new facilities are a direct result of the company’s growth both in its domestic markets and abroad, with turnover currently doubling every five years. With significant market share in the UK and over 60 international partners, Oxford Products expects its current trajectory to continue for the foreseeable future.
In his welcome speech, managing director Andrew Hammond emphasised the importance of reinvestment in infrastructure and personnel in achieving these ambitious goals.
Guests enjoyed a champagne reception in the vast new showroom suite before being addressed by the prime minister who spoke warmly of Oxford Products’ achievements as an example of what the UK economy needs more of.
He said: "I was delighted to be able to join Oxford Products in celebration of its new facilities. The company's continued success is a fantastic example of what can be achieved in a difficult economic climate. I know how much hard work has been put in by Andrew and all the staff and it is great to see the rewards of these efforts. Businesses like Oxford Products are of real benefit to the economy and I am proud to have them in my own constituency.”
The day was capped off by a tour of the impressive new facilities, which include 90,000 sq ft of warehousing and 10,000 sq ft of offices and showrooms. The prime minister met the staff whose hard work and dedication are behind the success of this family business, as well as the founder and current chairman Alec Hammond, who also paid tribute to the staff, customers and suppliers who have made this milestone possible.
