Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Roofing specialist BMI UK & Ireland has spent £6.3m refurbishing its Coventry-based Redland clay tile plant and kiln, with production now back underway following five months of planned maintenance.
The investment has modernised the site’s Rosemary kiln and production processes, enhancing operational efficiency, product quality and manufacturing resilience, while supporting the long-term future of UK clay tile production. It took more than 33,000 hours to complete and included improvements in the plant’s automation and product handling capabilities.
The refurbished kiln also features upgraded gas and control equipment to help production keep pace with modern demand, while the kiln entrance was also repainted and fitted with upgraded kit and hydraulics.
“Clay will always have a future in roofing,” says Damien Pooley, portfolio manager – pitched roofing at BMI UK & Ireland.
“We’re committed to UK manufacturing and our iconic Rosemary tile range, and this major investment allows us to strengthen our future manufacturing capabilities. With production now back underway, we’re already seeing the benefits of the refurbishment. This was a genuine team effort, with colleagues across the plant collaborating to improve efficiency based on their day-to-day, intimate understanding of our kiln operations. We’re incredibly proud of the result and what it means for both our customers and employees.”
The Coventry plant has produced BMI Redland’s Rosemary clay roof tile since 1989. Combining a traditional appearance with modern manufacturing techniques, the Rosemary range remains one of the UK’s best-known clay roof tiles.
