Lord Lieutenant Officially Opens New £4 Million Facility for Somers Forge Owned A&B Richardson Engineering

A&B Richardson Engineering, a family run leader in custom die and tool manufacturing and member of Somers Forge Group, proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art facility this week. The momentous occasion was marked by the presence of the Lord Lieutenant, who, alongside the Mayor of Dudley, Hilary Bills, conducted the official opening ceremony at their expansive new site located in Halesowen.

Acquired by Somers Forge in 2022 as part of a strategic expansion, A&B Richardson Engineering has experienced unprecedented growth over the past two years, underscoring its vital role in the manufacturing landscape. The £4 million investment in the new site, complete with new advanced CNC machinery reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the UK defence and aerospace sectors.

The larger facility will enable A&B Richardson Engineering to continue producing the UK’s largest dies and critical machined components, while also providing space for growth in newer areas, such as welding development capabilities – a move that speaks volumes about their vision for innovation.  This expansion enhances its ability to support Somers Forge’s capacity and strengthens its role within the defence supply chain.

During his speech at the ceremony, the Lord Lieutenant t took a moment to acknowledge Managing Director,  Andy Richardson and all those  involved in orchestrating the successful acquisition. This collaboration brought together A&B Richardson Engineering, Somers Forge and Folke Holdings, exemplifying the strength and richness of heritage found within  family run businesses operating in  heavy engineering throughout the region.

Andy Richardson, Managing Director of A&B Richardson Engineering, said:

"The opening was a celebration of the remarkable journey A&B Richardson has experienced over the past 20 years, starting with just myself working in a 500 sq ft unit, and growing into the Uk’s leading Tool & Die Manufacturer. We look forward to the continued growth and success this new facility will bring to both our team and the local community.

His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands Derrick Anderson CBE said:

The scale and complexity of the parts being produced here at A&B Engineering are truly impressive. Its an inspiring example of how family run businesses can evolve to meet national manufacturing priorities.

Councillor Hilary Bills, Mayor of Dudley Borough, said:

“It was a pleasure to visit A&B Richardson Engineering today and to officially open the new premises for this fantastic business. A&B Richardson Engineering manufactures vital parts for Britain's aerospace and maritime industries. I was most impressed with the cutting-edge technologies that I saw today, and I think that this, once again, proves how our local businesses are at the forefront of industrial innovation.”