Sheffield-based furniture manufacturer Freebird Interiors has benefited from Skills Bank support to upskill its staff in software development. 

Freebird Interiors, which specialises in the design and manufacture of cupboards, display units, alcoves and games tables, applied for funding for two staff to undertake training in the latest Polyboard Software for designing wooden products. 

The training means the company has been able to better automate its manufacturing processes for doors and cabinets, increasing the efficiency of its production of trade orders with less margin for error.  The Skills Bank training means the staff involved have become more confident in the use of the latest software and are more motivated after gaining new skills.

Alastair Johnson, Managing Director of Freebird Interiors, said: “The Skills Bank training has made a big difference to our business. We have been able to further automate our internal systems in line with 'lean manufacturing' principles.  This means we can move our own bespoke designed jobs through the design and production process more quickly and efficiently, for the ultimate benefit of our customers.  It has also enabled us to branch out into the supply of components to others in our trade.  Being able to use this latest software effectively means we can remain competitive.”

Freebird Interiors, based in Neepsend, is a family business, established in 2016.  The company provides a bespoke design and manufacturing service for trade and domestic customers in the South Yorkshire area and beyond.

Julie Mather, Skills Bank Advisor, explains: “This is a great success story of a manufacturer that has been able to take advantage of Skills Bank training in the latest software to automate their processes.  Many businesses are seeking Skills Bank support for training, like this, which increases their productivity and efficiency and contributes to business growth.”

Skills Bank provides employers across South Yorkshire with access to high quality training and funding to support skills training that will enable them to develop their business.  Skills Bank is part of South Yorkshire Growth Hub, a service which exists to help businesses to find the best possible support to grow or achieve business resilience, whether that is investment in Skills and Training, access to finance options, support with innovation or export or even helping new businesses to get off the ground.

To find out more about accessing Skills Bank training, visit: https://skillsbankscr.co.uk/

South Yorkshire Growth Hub Skills Advisors are available across the region to support and assist businesses with their needs. The Growth Hub supports the aims of the South Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership to create jobs and drive economic growth by providing local businesses with the tools they need to succeed. The Skills Bank Programme has been extended until 2025 by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.  The extension is in recognition of the needs of local businesses and as part of the support to boost South Yorkshire’s post pandemic recovery and renewal.

For details of support for business growth available in South Yorkshire, visit the South Yorkshire Growth Hub https://www.scrgrowthhub.co.uk/

For information about the services provided by Freebird Interiors visit www.freebirdinteriors.co.uk.