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Dudley business Cope Electronics takes journey towards employee ownership and sustainable growth

Cope Electronics, a well-established manufacturer of PCB boards located in Kingswinford on the Pensnett Trading Estate, has been a cornerstone of the local manufacturing scene for over 30 years. Adam Holmes, the Production Director at Cope Electronics, has played a pivotal role in the company's operations for two decades.



A transition to Employee Ownership Trust (EOT)

Recently, Cope Electronics underwent a pivotal transformation by moving to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This strategic move was initiated by the Managing Director, who, nearing retirement, chose to sell the company to a trust. This shift allowed all employees to gain a share and a voice in the company's future direction, aiming to preserve the company’s legacy while empowering its employees.


Navigating change to harness growth opportunities

To successfully manage this transition and seize growth opportunities, Cope Electronics engaged with the Business Growth West Midlands in Dudley Programme. This involvement provided them with crucial support in several areas, including strategic planning and employee engagement.


Under the guidance of Donna, Business Growth Adviser on the Dudley programme, Cope Electronics utilised the GROWTHmapper® tool a FREE business diagnostic which SMEs benefit from when participating in the programme. This helped them identify strengths and weaknesses within their operations and prompted honest discussions among the team members, who each played a part in the diagnostic process. The insights gained were instrumental in planning the next steps for the company's development.


Donna Watkins – Business Growth Adviser for the BGWM in Dudley Programme said:
"It's been a pleasure to work with the senior management team at Cope Technology Ltd.  
"Having completed the Oxford Innovation Advice GROWTHmapper® tool, they built upon the already open and honest communication that they were having, took the recommendation onboard and embraced the support that was available to them to take them onto their next stage in their growth journey.  
"It's been brilliant seeing them go through the process and the positive impact that it's had on their business".

Implementing the EOT and engaging with diagnostic tools presented opportunities for growth, even as it required aligning long-standing employees with the new business model. Despite initial resistance, the recent financial benefits realised from the changes have started to shift perspectives among the staff, making them more receptive to new strategies.

 

Powering up through workshop engagement

Adam highlighted the benefits of attending a workshop on digital manufacturing and factory tour hosted by Thomas Dudley, who is one of their clients. This event not only provided practical insights into automation and digitalisation but also enhanced Adam’s understanding of the end-product assembly process, bridging the gap between different stages of production.


Adam Cope, Production Director of Cope Electronics said:
"I strongly encourage other businesses to participate in the Business Growth West Midlands in Dudley Programme.
"The extensive support and readily available expertise have been instrumental in aiding Cope Electronics through a period of significant transformation. Embracing change and effectively using the resources provided were crucial for making informed strategic decisions."

Charging ahead to a bright future

Cope Electronics’ journey through adopting an EOT and leveraging the Business Growth West Midlands in Dudley Programme exemplifies how well-established manufacturing businesses can successfully navigate significant transitions. By embracing employee ownership and actively engaging in growth-oriented initiatives, the company is poised for a future of sustained innovation and development.


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