BTS Facades and Fabrications works with The Expanded Metal Company to launch new product

Two North East manufacturers have joined forces to develop a product they say is unique to the market.

BTS Facades and Fabrications, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has collaborated with The Expanded Metal Company, of Hartlepool, to launch a new expanded mesh frame system for protecting exterior spaces.

Bosses say it is the first of its kind in the UK.

BTS makes façade and rainscreen systems under the Vantage® brand, with The Expanded Metal Company producing a metal range that includes high security fencing and gates.

With this new product, The Expanded Metal Company recognised a gap in the market for the installation of expanded metal mesh material.

However, after finding it could only source a fixing system in Europe, rather than in the UK, it found support from BTS to move its venture forward.

Already a customer of The Expanded Metal Company, managing director of BTS Phil Atkinson was more than happy to join forces.

“We have used the firm’s products for a number of years so were thrilled when they approached us to work together,” said Phil, pictured on the right.

“We see the mesh framed system in comparison to a diamond ring, with the mesh as the ‘diamond’ and the framed fixing system as the setting, and together they are a perfect match.

“As the product is so unique, we currently have a patent pending to protect the design and manufacture of the Vantage® EM F (framed).”

The finished product is part of the Vantage® EM range – a protective mesh bracket and rail system affixed to buildings.

Philip Astley, managing director of The Expanded Metal Company, added: “I am passionate about linking with North East businesses where possible to develop strong regional working relationships.

“I took a conscious decision to ‘think local’ when approaching the problem of developing the mesh product into a complete solution. It was fantastic to realise that someone who could provide a solution was only 40 minutes away.

“We have a long history of supplying expanded metal mesh products for use in the architectural and construction sectors and this partnership combines our extensive industry expertise and manufacturing capabilities with BTS Facades and Fabrications’ innovative approach and specialist knowledge.

“We’re greatly looking forward to seeing the Vantage® EM F and EM SA range applied in future building projects and are delighted to be working hand-in-hand with another pioneering North East company.”

Phil Atkinson added: “With our strong market knowledge and as a trusted brand, the range will create a supply chain for contractors who previously had to travel to Europe for this type of product.”