The Importance of Being a British Manufacturer
Interview with Andy Heath, Asgard Secure Steel Storage
2009 | Interviewed by Tara
In this increasingly global marketplace, British manufacturing continues to stand out as a mark of quality, reliability and accountability. For Asgard Secure Steel Storage, manufacturing in Britain is about far more than a label on a product. It is a commitment to craftsmanship, security, innovation and customer service.
With decades of engineering expertise, Asgard has built its reputation on designing and manufacturing secure steel storage solutions from its headquarters in Bradford. We sat down with Andy Heath to discuss why being a British manufacturer remains so important.
British Manufacturing at the Heart of Asgard
Tara: Why is British manufacturing so important to Asgard?
Andy Heath:
"British manufacturing is at the heart of everything we do at Asgard. Its sound cliché, stock answerish, but by designing and producing our products here in the UK, we can maintain the highest standards of quality, support skilled British jobs and deliver secure storage solutions our customers can trust. The difference is we really do make it all here; nothing is bought in and assembled, we make it, the guys who design it and make it sit opposite me"
"Because we are all sitting in the same room, we are all involved in every stage, from design and engineering through to testing and out there in the factory; we have complete control over everything. When we get a new starter, I always warn them... if there is a problem, you will know about it, as someone will come storming in to express their...." concerns". That allows us to make products that are designed to last, and if there is a problem, it gets sorted very quickly.
Supporting British Industry and Skills
Tara: Why is being British-made still relevant today?
Andy Heath:
"The manufacturing sector plays a vital role in the UK's economy. It supports skilled employment, encourages innovation and helps preserve valuable engineering expertise."
"Bradford, where our headquarters are based, has a tremendous manufacturing heritage. There is a strong workforce here with the skills and experience needed to produce high-quality products. I think at last count our Design team had .............. over 250 years of combined manufacturing knowledge.. Being based in Bradford works really well for us because we're surrounded by that tradition and expertise, and it's handy for the M62"
"Choosing a British-made product is about more than buying a shed. You are investing in local skills, supporting British industry and helping to keep manufacturing expertise alive for future generations."
Building a Reputation for Quality
Tara: Asgard has built a strong reputation over the years. Why do you think customers trust the brand?
Andy Heath:
"Our reputation has been built on delivering products that do exactly what they are designed to do. Customers want secure, durable storage that protects their valuables, and that's what we've focused on for decades."
and lets face it, we are nice, laid-back people; we actually care, and we just offer advice, nothing more. The products speak for themselves; there is no hard sell from us."
Industry-Leading Security Standards
Tara: Security is a major part of the Asgard story. How important is that to the business?
Andy Heath:
"It's absolutely central to what we do. Our customers are storing valuable bicycles, motorcycles, tools, garden equipment and business assets, so security has to come first."
We designed all the products for a reason, so they are very fit for purpose, and once we were happy, they went off for official testing, and we smashed each test!
These independent certifications give customers confidence that they're investing in some of the most secure storage solutions available."
Being Close to the Customer
Tara: What advantages does manufacturing in Britain give your customers?
Andy Heath:
"One of the biggest benefits is accountability. Customers aren't dealing with an overseas supplier or a faceless importer. They're dealing directly with the people who design and manufacture the products."
So many Trustpilot reviews say good to speak to a human; they were helpful, Andy was really nice ... We give honest, expert advice, responsive customer service, and ongoing support from our UK-based team. Because we're close to our customers, we can react quickly to feedback and continually improve our products; also, when we get it wrong, we sort it quickly ."
Investing in the Future
Tara: When people talk about British manufacturing, they often focus on tradition. Is it also about the future?
Andy Heath:
"Absolutely. British manufacturing isn't just about preserving tradition. It's about innovation, sustainability and long-term growth."
What Does 'Made in Britain' Mean to You?
Tara: On a personal level, what does being a British manufacturer mean to you?
Andy Heath:
"It's where I live, so that's handy for the commute.. For me, it's about pride. Every shed, bike store, motorcycle garage and storage unit that leaves our factory represents decades of engineering experience and a commitment to doing things properly."
"Being Made in Britain isn't simply a badge on a product. It represents craftsmanship, reliability, security and customer satisfaction. It's a promise that the product has been designed, engineered and manufactured to meet the highest standards."
"British manufacturing has always been part of our DNA. It's what allows us to deliver the quality, security and service our customers expect, today and for many years to come."
Why Buy British?
For Andy Heath and the team at Asgard, the reasons are simple:
✅ Designed in Britain
✅ Manufactured in Britain
✅ Over 50 years of engineering expertise
✅ Industry-leading security standards
✅ 10-year warranty
✅ Direct support from the manufacturer
