Jobs created as playground equipment maker in Kettering invests in its future

Mayor Kettering Cllr Keli Watts with representatives of Wicksteed Playgrounds.

Children’s playground equipment maker Wicksteed Playgrounds, of Digby Street, has invested about £120,000 this year in new equipment.

Directors say the firm, which was founded 101 years ago and has 120 staff, has taken on more staff and is planning further investment next year with a renewal of its fleet of inspection vehicles and a new lunch room for staff.

To celebrate its success, the Mayor of the Borough of Kettering Councillor Keli Watts was invited to tour the premises.

Mayor of Kettering Cllr Keli Watts views the production process at Wicksteed Playgrounds.

Andy Prentice, marketing supervisor, said: “Over the last few months we have added a number of new members of staff to our design, quotes and installations departments.

“We have recently installed a brand new, state of the art paint oven which will reduce waiting times for our customers and reduce waste.

“We take our environmental impact very seriously which is one of many reasons why we offer a large range of products that are built to last and come with a 25 year guarantee.

Mr Prentice said the secret of the firm’s success in the face of years of national economic and political uncertainty was due to a number of factors.

He said: “We are able to offer all of our customers a special level of care only found in a family owned business and we have a UK manufacturing base.”