New HQ move spells expansion plans

Foster Industrial is to move into a prestigious new headquarters building in Shepshed which will allow the family-run firm to improve service levels – and provide room for growth.

One of the largest suppliers of industrial gases, welding, cutting and abrasive products to the trade in the Midlands, Foster supplies the UK metal fabrication industry from two distribution centres currently situated in Nottingham & Leicester.

The family run business, which established in 1886, is to move to Matrix House in Gelders Hall Road Industrial Estate in Shepshed.

Richard Foster, director of Foster Industrial, said: “Finding a property with excellent transport links to Nottingham, Leicester and Derby was our number one priority. At last we have premises that will allow us to improve service levels and expand the business. Another era in our 125 year history is about to unfold.”

The deal was brokered between NG Chartered Surveyors and heb. The building was originally built by William Davis for International Fire and Training Equipment in 1998 and more recently was home to Calyx Software which downsized and relocated to the Illuma Business Park on the estate.  The new Calyx offices are directly opposite on Illuma Park –  another NG scheme.

Originally founded in 1886 by Joseph Foster, Foster Industrial initially traded as coal merchants. 125 years on and Foster family members Richard and Charles continue to build the business.  In 2009 the brothers decided that due to the increasing demands of an expanding and growing business, a single, centralised headquarters was required.

Following extensive, state-of-the-art improvements currently being carried out at Matrix House, the Fosters are confident that the new premises situated in the heart of the East Midlands will provide an exciting opportunity for the future growth of their business, says Sunny Landa of NG.

The deal was quickly agreed between Sunny who was jointly marketing the property with David Menzies Associates on behalf of the vendors and Robert Maxey of heb on behalf of Foster Industrial.

The property extends to nearly 15,000 sq ft of which approximately 60% comprises high quality office accommodation.  Matrix House is highly specified and sits on a one acre secure site.

Sunny said: “Foster Industrial purchased the facility not long after marketing commenced earlier this year. It has been an interesting project to work on and I am extremely pleased with the outcome. 

“The strategic location of Gelders Hall makes it an outstanding location. In the past 12 months we have also transacted over 15,000 sq ft of grade A office space on the Illuma Park development further reinforcing the popularity of the location.”

Robert Maxey, of heb said; “It is very satisfying to have sourced and secured this site for a much valued client. Foster Industrial had a very specific requirement in terms of the location and specification required, and it has taken some time to identify the right property.”

The transaction was documented by Elly Duggins, of Gateley LLP in Nottingham on behalf of the purchaser.