Members of the Made community recently visited fellow member Boneham and Turner for a factory tour and best-practice event. These site visits are just one of the monthly opportunities—offered both in person and online—that Made members enjoy to exchange insights and learn from each other’s successes. With visits already taking place in the Midlands and Yorkshire, and plans underway to expand to the South West, these events showcase the breadth and depth of expertise within the Made network.
During the factory tour, Boneham and Turner shared valuable lessons from their century-long track record of exporting—especially to the United States. Below is an overview of the key insights provided by Managing Director Charles Boneham, offering practical guidance for manufacturers looking to expand into foreign markets.
In an increasingly globalised manufacturing landscape, UK businesses are looking beyond domestic borders to seize international opportunities. Among them, Nottingham-based Boneham and Turner stands out as a company that has successfully navigated the complexities of exporting—particularly to the United States—for over a century. Recently, Made in the Midlands hosted a best-practice factory tour of the company, where Managing Director Charles Boneham shared valuable insights, offering a roadmap for manufacturers looking to expand into foreign markets.
A Legacy of Innovation and Adaptability
Founded in 1918, Boneham and Turner has built a reputation for resilience and adaptability. The company’s origins trace back to the hosiery industry, manufacturing textile frames in Nottingham—a region once synonymous with textile production. Over time, the company evolved, playing a crucial role in wartime manufacturing by producing precision-engineered parts for legendary aircraft such as the Spitfire and Lancaster bomber. This legacy of technical excellence paved the way for Boneham and Turner’s future success in precision engineering and, ultimately, international exporting.
Breaking into the U.S. Market
A major turning point came in the 1970s, when the company acquired British Aero Components (BAC), including a New Jersey-based subsidiary. This strategic acquisition provided a foothold in the American market, initially focusing on the East Coast automotive sector and supplying industry giants like Ford and General Motors. However, as manufacturing trends shifted and the demand for certain components declined, Boneham and Turner had to redefine its market strategy to remain competitive.
Adapting to Market Shifts
By the 1990s, the company recognised that long-term success in the U.S. required diversification beyond automotive manufacturing. This prompted a strategic shift towards sectors such as aerospace and industrial precision engineering. Reflecting on the challenge, Charles Boneham remarked, “We really had to think about what we were going to do next.” This underscores the importance of proactive strategic planning when adapting to evolving market conditions.
The Power of Networking and Industry Associations
One of the key lessons from Boneham and Turner’s success is the critical role of networking in building a sustainable export business. The company is an active member of the Industrial Supply Association (ISA), a U.S.-based trade group that connects manufacturers with distributors and sales representatives. These industry associations provide valuable opportunities to establish partnerships and access new markets.
Boneham emphasised the importance of attending trade shows with a clear plan: “If you go there with a strategy, looking for representation or distributors, you will meet the right people.” This highlights the importance of industry engagementand targeted networking in international business expansion.
Key Takeaways for UK Manufacturers
Boneham and Turner’s experience offers a blueprint for UK manufacturers aiming to expand their global footprint:
- Strategic acquisitions can accelerate market entry.
- Diversification is key to long-term resilience.