Cottage Cabinets, Emlyn Street, Farnworth

WHEN David Blower set up his bespoke kitchen-making company in 2004, he decided he needed the support of his family.

Now it has turned into a real family affair as his wife, two sons and sister and brother-in-law all work in the growing business.

Cottage Cabinets Ltd was established in 2004, manufacturing bespoke kitchen and bedroom furniture.

The company moved to larger premises in Bolton Textile Mill in Emlyn Street, Farnworth, in 2007.

Director David Blower said: “We have invested more than £100,000 in automated machinery and capacity, quality and efficiency has significantly increased.”

Mr Blower is a Bolton born and bred entrepreneur with more than 21 years’ experience in the trade and is familiar with both production and fitting.

His wife, Joanne, is the company secretary and finance director.

He said: “The family members ensure the business has a common goal of producing high-quality kitchens to customer specification on time and, as a proof of family dynamics, the business has increased turnover and capacity with half the workforce.

“Family support also provides the business with a competitive edge, where loyalty to the business means rush orders can be pushed even if it means working late.”

Family members have designated responsibility in the operation of the business but, because they are related, they are more flexible, which ensures the company remains competitive and continues to grow.

The business has invested heavily over the last few years to retrain the workforce through the Train to Gain scheme and the Manufacturing Institute in areas of IT training and lean production.

It has resulted in an increase in production, reduction in waste and better utilisation of plant. With investment in machinery and software and workforce, Cottage Cabinets is now in a better position to build on current growth and expand into flat pack kitchens for the trade.