introduction to wilsons

Introduction

The intention of this presentation is to show why Wilsons Plc. holds the position of one of the largest independent stockholders in the U.K., possibly in Europe.

Before we look at Wilsons current position and its vision for the future, it is important to understand how the company has developed, as well as the important effect it has had on the growth of the stockist industry in this country.

Origin / Development of UK Stockists and Wilsons

The strength of metal stockholding in this country is unique in Europe and perhaps in the world.

The development of the Aluminium stockholding industry came from the foresight of a few men during and/or soon after the Second World War.

Before and directly after the war, the engineering industry was forced to buy their raw materials direct from the mills, being unable to buy specific quantities from a distributor or stockist as they can be today. A company known as W. Wilsons commenced trading in 1947 buying material (Aluminium and Steels) from the mills and also taking up the large excesses held by the aircraft manufacturers. From these earliest days the company supplied metals to the aircraft industry. Stocks grew from the finance accrued during the company's early years in trading and its very positive commercial abilities.

The first warehouse and offices were opened at Wood Green, North London over 60 years ago. This 40,000 square foot warehouse soon became inadequate and additional facilities were found in Cambridgeshire to cope with the company's expansion. The company traded primarily in Aluminium and its alloys, but also dealt in steel and specialist metals over the years. With the passage of time emphasis has been laid on Aluminium and Non Ferrous metals. This then was the origin of Wilsons.

In nearly sixty years of trading, the company has been subject to many market fluctuations; however the levels of stocks have been maintained, even in the most competitive of conditions.  End users are welcome to verify this by visiting the warehouse and drawing comparisons.

Market Development at Wilsons

For many years Wilsons was recognised as the main stockist for Aluminium to the Aircraft industry in this country. In the past the company possibly took about 75% of the total stockist business relating to this industry. Growth in the supply of commercial specifications became necessary as competition developed. Business has broadened and grown substantially supplying other industries which include - Shipbuilding, Nuclear Power, Cryogenics, Armaments, Hydraulics, Artificial Limbs, Commercial Vehicles etc.

Speculative trading has long since been replaced by an industry focused stock range; a stock range sufficiently versatile to satisfy a customer base exceeding 2000 companies.

Stock - What can Wilsons Offer?

All stock was consolidated at Huntingdon around 15 years ago. Currently the company holds in excess of 10,000 tonnes of aluminium yellow metals and steels in bar, sheet, tube and plate, in warehouses in excess of ¼ of a million square feet. It is Wilsons intention to maintain its current comprehensive range of stock, but always reviewing what is needed by industry.

The strength of the company is extensive especially in the supply of aluminium bar and sheet; for example Wilsons stocks flats and square bar in L168 alloy, in over 500 different sizes.

All materials originate from reputable manufacturers from British Aluminium, Alcoa in the past to current suppliers which include Alcan, Pechiney, Alcoa and most major European Mills.  American Mills are now commonly accessed for Specific Grades.

Wilsons Group Centralisation

Since the death of Mr. William Wilson and the subsequent retirement of John Neal (Director in overall charge of the stockholding company), the company has been under the control of Mr. A. Wilson; the son of the founder.

He built up a company known as A. W. Alloys at Walthamstow, East London, during his father's lifetime. A. W. Alloys, now part of Wilsons Plc, manufactures pipe, elbows, flanges and fittings from aluminium, cupro-nickel and stainless steel to be supplied to the Petro-Chemical, Offshore, Shipbuilding and Natural Gas Industries. The capability of this division encompasses metal fabrication and welding of sheet and plate, c.n.c. machining and press brake facilities thus offering a comprehensive engineering capability.

During 1994, on completion of a new office block in Huntingdon, the company closed the Walthamstow site. The end of July saw all administrative, sales and technical staff amalgamated with those from the stock holding division.

Wilsons Plc, can therefore offer to industry a comprehensive facility of stockholding, materials management, engineering and a metal service centre incorporating plate cutting, profiling, pre-machining as well as bar cutting and guillotining.

Quality control and its relevant procedures play an important role in the company. Both sides of the company's business carry all major authorised approvals as well as being individually approved by most major contractors.

Wilsons is emerging as a company of multifaceted capability, being able to satisfy an exceptionally wide range of customers.

The development of the aluminium cutting/profiling and pre-machining of plate and bar started two years ago. This area of business has shown a significant upturn and is an example of the company's willingness to the change. Capital has been made available for further investment in plate saws and c.n.c. cutting equipment to cope with increased sales.

It is Wilsons intention to expand and build on its strengths. However, as seen over the past few years, current supply policies must remain flexible to suit the purchasing procedures sought by the management of large manufacturing companies.

Total Quality Management is where the company sees the great importance of monitoring the quality and performance within, and more especially with the manufacturers it uses for bulk supplies of metal.

Conclusion

This report has developed a picture of a company whose foundations are firm, and whose business procedures and capabilities are of the highest standards.

Communication and dialogue are the pre-requisites for any programme destined for success. It is Wilsons wish to continually review its position for the benefit of all its customers, suppliers and staff.