AN ELECTRONICS manufacturer celebrated a £3million investment by its parent company with the opening of its new head office in Ulverston.

Bender UK’s new purpose built facility is on the Low Mill Business Park in Ulverston, opposite its former home.

The official opening was attended by Barrow in Furness MP, John Woodcock who unveiled a plaque in the reception area.

The event was also attended by members of the Bender family which founded the company in Germany more than 70 years ago, along with the Mayor of Ulverston Cllr Mark Wilson, supply chain partners, customers and local businesses.

Bender managing director Gareth Brunton believes that this technology will fuel further growth of the company which thirteen years ago employed seven people and now has a workforce of 44 across the UK.

Mr Brunton said: “As someone born and bred in Furness, I am immensely proud of the investment in the future of Bender UK right here in Ulverston, and the confidence shown by the Bender family in our excellent workforce.”

Bender UK’s growth has seen healthcare become its biggest single market with more than 500 UK and Ireland hospitals relying on Bender technology.

The company is currently involved with development at Furness General Hospital’s new maternity unit. and Bender technology is also used to safeguard equipment on submarines designed and built by BAE Systems in Barrow.

Mr Woodcock said: “It is tremendously encouraging to see a global company renewing its footprint in the UK, and to see here today representatives from local companies, business organisations and schools which help to make this area so special.

“We are living in uncertain times but this occasion is a reminder that we must remain outward looking, serving the world and attracting investment.”

The MP acknowledged the request by Christian Bender for a moment of silence as a mark of respect for the victims of the Westminster attack and noted that the gestures of support by the German government and others across the world had been appreciated.