Despite the shutdown of many factories and production firms in the UK because of the coronavirus, Chirk’s Kronospan factory has been working to help the NHS by providing essential materials.

The wood panel manufacturer, based in Holyhead Road, has been receiving orders from customers in the furniture trade to supply materials for NHS consumption.

Product from the local factory has been distributed to sites in the UK that are gearing up to help in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

In addition, Kronospan’s sawmill team has also been busy making pallet wood, which is urgently needed for food packaging and other essential industries at this busy time.

However, the lack of demand in the consumer sectors has had its impact on the rest of the business, and around half of the workforce are currently furloughed until further notice.

Kronospan chairman, Mike McKenna, feels proud of his staff for the work they have done during the uncertain times.

He said: “We are immensely proud of those members of our work force who are keeping to the social distancing rules and working hard to produce product which is critical in the current environment.

“Our country is facing the largest national emergency for a generation and our thoughts and sympathies are with those who are personally affected by this situation.

“It is crucial that everyone plays their part in the national effort, working with the government to combat the spread of the coronavirus and save lives.

“We are proud to be able to accommodate the requests we have had for our products and we are working hand in glove with our customers who supply the NHS to facilitate their requests.”

Mr McKenna re-iterated the importance of the welfare of his employees and is ensuring they stick to good practice.

“Kronospan is working hard to protect its work force and the local community in which it is based,” he added.

“The welfare of our employees is of paramount importance and we have taken numerous steps to protect them and constantly remind them of essential good practice.

“Our workforce that are not directly part of this effort are not required on site, and are receiving furlough pay.

“Before resorting to furlough we had already organised to get as many of our workforce as possible working from home where this was practicable.”