A BRIMSCOMBE-BASED manufacturing company is branching out with a new HQ in Stonehouse.

Staitech has marked its twentieth year at Hope Mill Lane with fresh plans for a 17,500 square foot facility on two adjoining plots at Stonehouse Park.

The company, which began in 1997, designs and manufactures pipeline products such as steam traps, sample coolers and non-return valves for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries including many of the world’s leading drug producers.

Staitech has been based in Brimscombe since 2003 renting a 3,200 square foot factory under the guidance of managing director Andrew Ferguson.

He started the company after developing an interest in the pharmaceutical market whilst on a work placement in the USA – expanding on his engineering background.

Andrew said: “When I came back to the UK, the market was developing for this sort of product and there was an opportunity to develop with it, so I started my own company.

"Now my previous employer is a very good customer."

Staitech has grown to become one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of high purity system components to the pharmaceutical industry.

Andrew aims to build a production and office facility on part of the new site by 2018, providing a modern environment for its state-of-the-art machinery.

A planning application will be prepared for Stroud District Council later this year.

Once the move is complete Andrew is hoping to expand and take on more staff, there are currently 12 people working at Brimscombe.

Senior development manager for Robert Hitchins Ltd who own the sites at Stonehouse Park, Michael Plimmer, said: “We’re delighted that Staitech, a local company with impressive expansion plans, has chosen to come to Stonehouse Park, further strengthening the location as a vibrant and successful business park.”