Manufacturer will put out more flags

Mar 24 2009 by Chris Knox, The Journal

A FLAG maker has turned its fortunes around and expects to grow after landing a host of contracts from one of its biggest rivals.

AA Flags, in Consett, County Durham, has been badly affected by the recession in recent months, which has forced it to make four of its 16 workforce redundant and cut shifts.

However, some staff are now working overtime after the firm secured a stream of new business from a competitor, including work to supply flags and bunting to the Royal British Legion, the Scout Association and The Marine Society and Sea Cadets.

It now believes it can increase its turnover from about £400,000 to £600,000 by next year and has just welcomed back one of its axed workers to help cope with the demand.

Managing director Mandy Scott said: “It’s fair to say that we were facing a very difficult time just around a month ago. But landing this new work has just turned everything around. Staff are much happier about the place and we are now rushed off our feet with some of the orders. We are now right back on track and are looking to continue growing the business again.”