Councillor Malcolm Brain and Craig Harrison from Gateshead Council were welcomed by Astley
Manufacturer and producer of specialist signage and creative projects, Astley, has detailed its recent visit from local cabinet member for Economy, councillor Malcolm Brain along with Craig Harrison from Gateshead Council’s Business, Employment & Skills, Economy, Innovation & Growth team.
The visit came about as Astley was identified by the council as a company of interest due to its involvement in recruitment and apprenticeship programmes in Gateshead.
Councillor Brain was provided with a comprehensive overview of the company’s operations, recent achievements, as well as its future endeavours.
The visit included a tour of the custom-built facility which had just completed production of the iconic Tyne Bridge Great North Run (GNR) signs for a tenth year.
Brain comments: “The GNR always brings a buzz to Gateshead and Newcastle as soon as you see the sign go up you feel the anticipation rise. It was fascinating to visit the company that has created the sign for the past ten years, and all the incredible work it has done for some of the leading consumer brands, and some very interesting bespoke projects too.”
The visit gave a chance for Astley to engage the local Councillor with the Astley leadership team as well as focus on topics like local development, recruitment, and growth initiatives.
Astley stressed the importance of sign-making as an “esteemed and traditional skill” and also how the company was combating the issues with important signage from abroad by manufacturing products directly in the UK.
“It’s an incredible skill to make these signs, it’s humbling to know that some major signs in the UK are made right here in Gateshead” says Brain. “I commend the company for its continued efforts in its apprenticeship programme, ensuring residents can learn valuable skills to help them secure future employment.”
The visit solidified Astley’s commitment to Gateshead’s Thrive agenda which focuses on making the community a place where people can not only survive but also flourish, prosper, and succeed.
Astley has also focused efforts on its Better Health at Work scheme as well as building on its Net Zero and apprenticeship programmes.
If you’d like to share news or opinions with us feel free to email at news@signlink.co.uk or join in with the conversation on Twitter and LinkedIn.
