UK's Somerset Defence Textiles boosts capacity with plant extension

Needles and Pins Aerospace – a female-led, family-run firm – has unveiled an expanded production facility in Somerton.

And to launch the new facilities, the company welcomed figures from across the aviation and defence sectors, staff, customers and suppliers to its Somerton Business Park headquarters.

Director Carole Champion led the ceremony, cutting the ribbon, with a pair of scissors used to cut the first piece of material for the company back in July 2018 – owned by recently-retired general manager, Jean Spearpoint.

“This is a proud and significant moment in our journey,” Carole said. “It’s a celebration of our incredible team, the support we’ve had from customers and suppliers and a statement of our confidence in the future.

“With renewed focus on defence and British manufacturing, the opportunities ahead are exciting.”

Needles and Pins Aerospace designs, manufactures and repairs bespoke protective covers, acoustic insulation and interior soft fittings for military and civilian aircraft, working with the likes of Boeing Defence UK and Leonardo, which has a plant in nearby Yeovil.

Carole was joined by her son, Dillon Harmon, chief operating officer, who spoke of the company’s growth and shared the team’s plans, including further investment in people, processes and technology.

The business has grown its workforce by 25% in the past year, with another 25% increase planned by the end of 2025, including the creation of two new apprenticeship roles.

Steve Burnell, managing director of Boeing Defence UK, was among guests at the opening of the extended facility and said: “At Boeing, we are committed to strengthening the UK aerospace industry by investing in local talent and fostering partnerships with innovative SMEs like Needles and Pins Aerospace.

“We’re delighted to share in this milestone and support their continued growth.”

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ALCHEMPro News Desk (RM)