The female-led and family-run industrial textiles manufacturer, Needles and Pins Aerospace, invited key figures from across the aviation and defence sectors to an event in its Somerton Business Park headquarters to recognise the company’s past achievements and future ambitions, writes Rowan Russell.
The company specialises in the design, manufacture, and repair of bespoke protective covers, acoustic insulation, and interior soft fittings for military and civilian aircraft.
Their workforce has grown by 25 per cent in the last year - a growth which was reflected on by speakers at the event - with another 25 per cent increase planned by the end of 2025.
During this event, the company revealed its growing production facility in Somerton, highlighting the advancement in manufacturing within rural Somerset.
Director Carole Champion said: "This is a proud and significant moment in our journey.
"It’s a celebration of our incredible team, the support we’ve had from customers and suppliers, and a statement of our confidence in the future.
"With renewed focus on defence and British manufacturing, the opportunities ahead are exciting."
Ms Champion led the ceremony and cut the ribbon in the company’s signature colour of bold orange.
She was joined by her son, Dillon Harmon - chief operating officer at the company - who also addressed the guests at the event.
He shared the team’s plans, including more investment in people and technology.
The first standalone UK textile manufacturer to achieve AS9110 certification, the company has longstanding relationships with Boeing Defence UK and supplies a wide range of specialist equipment to Chinook helicopters flown by British forces.
Steve Burnell, managing director of Boeing Force UK, was among the guests at the event, commenting:
"At Boeing, we are committed to strengthening the UK aerospace industry by investing in local talent and fostering partnerships with innovative SMEs like Needles and Pins Aerospace.
"We’re delighted to share in this milestone and support their continued growth."
This highlights how the expansion in workforce and production facility in Needles and Pins Aerospace is resulting in the company becoming a vital part in the UK’s defence sector—a part that will continue to grow as the company will doubtlessly only expand further.
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