Honouring VE Day with a Warren-made beacon

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On Thursday 8th May at 9:30pm, Warren will proudly mark VE Day by lighting the beacon located on the roundabout.

This annual moment of reflection gives us all a chance to pause, remember and pay tribute to those who lived, fought and died during the Second World War. Lighting the beacon is a symbolic gesture of remembrance and unity, and we’re honoured to be part of this tradition once again.

In true Warren style, there’s also a touch of mystery involved. It seems Father Christmas is still in the beacon (yes, really!) and no one quite knows how he got there. Perhaps he’s keeping watch until the big night!

The VE Day Tribute

As we light the beacon, we’ll also be sharing this powerful tribute to those who served, supported and sacrificed:

The Tribute

Let us remember those who gave their lives at home and abroad, whose sacrifice enables us to all enjoy the peace we have today.

Let us remember those who came home, wounded, physically and mentally, and the friends and family who cared for them.

Let us remember those who returned to restore their relationships and rebuild their working and family lives after years of conflict and turmoil.

Let us remember the families that lost husbands, wives, sons, daughters and sweethearts.

Let us remember the servicemen and women of other nationalities and faiths from Commonwealth and allied countries who fought, suffered and died during six years of war.

Let us remember those in reserved occupations and the brave people who kept us safe on the home front – the doctors, nurses who cared for the wounded, the men and women who toiled in the fields, the fisherman who fished the seas, those who worked in the factories and the air-raid wardens, the police officers, firemen, ambulance drivers and the young people of the Scouts and Guides who played such a vital role in the war effort at home to.

God Save The King

 

A little bit country – and a whole lot of fun!

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At Warren, we’re always proud to celebrate the talents and interests of our team, both in and out of the workplace. And on Friday 28th March, one of our own took centre stage for the debut gig of their country band, A Little Bit Country!

The venue was buzzing with energy as a great crowd gathered to enjoy an evening full of toe-tapping tunes, classic country hits, and plenty of good cheer. With low-priced drinks and some some good ole country dancing, it was a night to remember.

While the band delivered an authentic country sound, there was one humorous twist – the only American in the group was also the only one not wearing cowboy boots, a cowboy shirt or even a cowboy hat! It’s safe to say they’ve promised to correct that as soon as they find the nearest cowboy outfitters.

Missed it? You’ve got another chance!

If you couldn’t make it to the British Legion on the 28th, don’t worry, the band is already gearing up for their next performance. A Little Bit Country will be playing at the Elveden Inn Festival on 23rd May. If the last gig is anything to go by, it’s going to be another fantastic evening filled with great music and good vibes.

So polish up those dancing boots and save the date – we’ll see you there!

Warren Attends Make UK National Manufacturing Conference 2025

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On Tuesday 5th March, our Founder Owner, Richard Bridgman and Commercial Manager, Iain Milroy attended the Make UK National Manufacturing Conference 2025 in Westminster. This event brought together representatives from manufacturing businesses across the UK, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the sector.

A day of insightful discussions

The conference was expertly hosted by Steph McGovern, who delivered the day’s welcome speech. With a background in engineering and manufacturing – having started her career at Black & Decker before moving into journalism – Steph’s understanding of the sector made her an engaging and insightful host.

The Keynote Speaker, journalist Robert Peston, provided an intriguing analysis of recent global political events. He shared insights from his first-hand experience in the Oval Office last week, where he witnessed discussions between Keir Starmer and Donald Trump. His speech focused on key topics including:

  • The war in Ukraine and its impact on UK and US relations
  • Potential UK/US trade deals and tariff concerns
  • Uncertainty following a difficult meeting between Zelensky and Trump

His analysis highlighted the potential challenges ahead for UK manufacturers navigating global trade and geopolitical uncertainty.

Exploring opportunities in nuclear defence

Later in the morning, we attended a breakout session on Defence – Nuclear, which proved to be both relevant and thought-provoking.

Breaking into the nuclear sector is notoriously difficult due to high security requirements and stringent standards. However, an interesting takeaway was that while these regulations apply to core nuclear operations, many infrastructure support services around nuclear projects do not.

With the development of Sizewell in our region, this could present new opportunities for Warren. As we continue to expand our capabilities, this is certainly an area worth exploring further.

Defence investment: a boost for UK manufacturing

The conference closed with a speech from the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, who emphasised investment in the defence sector. With the increasing need to bolster UK and European defence capabilities, she highlighted several key initiatives, including:

  • Single source procurement – speeding up the MOD’s order placement process and giving SMEs greater access to defence contracts
  • The Defence Innovation Hub – a new initiative supporting tech and AI development in the defence sector

This was particularly encouraging for Warren as we continue to grow our involvement in the defence sector. The government’s focus on ensuring UK businesses benefit from defence spending aligns well with our ambitions.

Despite the uncertainty of current global affairs, the Make UK National Manufacturing Conference 2025 was a positive and productive event. It provided valuable networking opportunities, industry insights, and discussions on key challenges and opportunities for manufacturers like Warren.

We left the conference with a stronger understanding of where the sector is heading, and we are excited about the potential opportunities in nuclear infrastructure and defence manufacturing.

Supporting Local Talent: Warren Attends Norfolk Apprenticeships Network Meeting

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At Warren, we are always looking for ways to support and invest in future talent, so attending the Norfolk Apprenticeships Network Meeting on Wednesday, 26th February was a great opportunity to connect with other local employers and discuss the latest apprenticeship initiatives.

Meeting at Able2B – Supporting Inclusivity Through Physical Activity

The meeting was held at Able2B in Norwich, an inspiring organisation dedicated to supporting children and adults with disabilities through physical activity. Able2B runs group classes and one-to-one sessions to help improve fitness levels, build self-confidence and promote inclusion. Their work aligns with our values of providing opportunities for people to develop and thrive, regardless of background or ability.

Norfolk Apprenticeships: A Positive Growth Story

One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the fantastic rise in apprenticeship starts across Norfolk. Compared to a national increase of just 1.32%, Norfolk has seen a remarkable 11% rise – a testament to the dedication of local businesses, training providers  and young professionals eager to gain industry skills.

At Warren, we are proud to contribute to this growth by providing hands-on training, mentorship  and career development opportunities for apprentices. Skilled workers are the backbone of the manufacturing and engineering sectors  and we believe in nurturing the next generation of talent.

Connecting with Local Employers

The meeting also provided a great platform for networking with other local businesses that employ apprentices, exchanging ideas and identifying opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that could enhance training and employment prospects in the region. Engaging with these networks ensures that Warren stays at the forefront of workforce development, helping us attract skilled and motivated individuals to our team.

We are excited about the positive momentum in apprenticeships across Norfolk and look forward to exploring how Warren can continue to support and grow opportunities for young people in engineering and manufacturing.

If you’re interested in an apprenticeship or career at Warren, keep an eye on our website for opportunities – or get in touch to learn more!

Strengthening local manufacturing: Meeting with Peter Prinsley MP

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At Warren, we are always keen to engage with policymakers to ensure that the voice of the manufacturing and engineering sector is heard. As part of our ongoing efforts, our Founder Owner, Richard Bridgman recently arranged a meeting with Peter Prinsley, the newly elected Labour MP for Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket, during his visit to the Make UK Conference in London on 4th March.

A timely meeting in Westminster

With the conference taking place just across the road from the House of Commons, the timing was perfect to arrange a meeting with Peter. Their paths had first crossed on the eve of the election when Peter was out campaigning in Bury, proudly wearing his large red rosette.

They met in Portcullis House for a productive half-hour discussion about his new role as MP for Bury & Stowmarket. Peter, a practising surgeon in Norwich, is now in the process of stepping away from his medical career to dedicate himself fully to his parliamentary and constituency responsibilities.

Engaging with the West Suffolk Manufacturing Club

Ahead of their meeting, Richard had sent Peter information about the West Suffolk Manufacturing Club, an initiative that has been instrumental in supporting local manufacturers. As Chair of the Club, Richard was keen to introduce him to the network and highlight the critical role that manufacturing plays in the local economy.

While his demanding schedule has so far prevented him from attending one of our meetings, Peter expressed a keen interest in engaging with the club when his diary allows. They both agreed to stay in contact and explore the possibility of him addressing club members during a parliamentary recess.

Building strong relationships between industry leaders and policymakers is essential for driving forward the interests of the manufacturing sector.

We look forward to welcoming Peter Prinsley to a future West Suffolk Manufacturing Club meeting and continuing to work together to champion the manufacturing and engineering sector in our region.

Warren helps bring new seating to the Bridge Theatre

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At Warren, we take pride in contributing to exciting projects across various industries, and we were delighted to be part of the recent re-fit at the Bridge Theatre in London. In January, two of our talented team members, Will and Jed spent two days working on-site to install newly fabricated seating for the theatre.

The Bridge Theatre, known for its innovative performances and versatile staging, is undergoing some updates, and our team was tasked with fabricating a new seating area. With many contractors on-site, it was a busy and challenging environment.

Jed did a fantastic job navigating the complexities of the site and ensuring the installation went smoothly.

We’re proud to have played a role in enhancing one of London’s popular cultural venues. If your business needs expert fabrication and engineering services, Warren is here to help. Get in touch with us to find out how we can bring your vision to life with precision and expertise.

We’re Finalists in the Apprenticeships Norfolk Awards 2025!

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We’re thrilled to announce that we are finalists in the Apprenticeships Norfolk Awards 2025!

Apprenticeships Norfolk plays a vital role in supporting both individuals seeking apprenticeships and employers aiming to provide them. Their free advice and step-by-step guidance ensure that the apprenticeship journey is a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

The Apprenticeships Norfolk Awards is a fantastic platform to shine a spotlight on the dedication and talent of Norfolk apprentices and employers. We’re proud to be part of an initiative that celebrates the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the wider community.

The awards are sponsored by the East of England Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (AAN), a passionate group of around 860 employers and 340 current or former apprentices. Their work inspires and promotes the value of apprenticeships across the region.

We can’t wait to join fellow finalists at the awards ceremony in February and celebrate the achievements of apprenticeships in Norfolk. A huge thank you to our brilliant team and apprentices for their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication, which have made this recognition possible!

Giving away an Amada Co2 4-kilowatt laser machine – a rare opportunity!

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At Warren, we’re always focused on innovation and efficiency. As part of our commitment to optimising our manufacturing processes, we’ve upgraded our laser cutting capabilities to accommodate thicker aluminium materials. This means we now have a fantastic opportunity for someone to take ownership of an excellent piece of machinery – completely free of charge!

We’re giving away an Amada Co2 4-kilowatt LASER machine, purchased new in November 2009. This machine has been an integral part of our operations, delivering precision cuts and reliable performance. While we’d love to keep it, we need the floor space for our new equipment. Here’s everything you need to know about this offer:

  • This machine cuts steel effortlessly, with a maximum capacity of up to 20mm thick.
  • The 3m x 1.5m bed size is ideal for a variety of applications.
  • It has been meticulously maintained, with all servicing up to date and carried out by Amada engineers.
  • The Amada Co2 LASER is a trusted choice in engineering and manufacturing sectors worldwide.

This machine has served us incredibly well, and we are confident it can deliver the same results for its next owner.

What’s the catch?

The machine itself is free. The only costs involved are related to removal and transport, which will need to be covered by the recipient.

This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses or educational institutions looking to expand their laser cutting capabilities without the upfront cost of purchasing new equipment.

Machine specifications

For more info and the technical details, you can view the full machine brochure here:
LC-F1 Brochure

Get in touch

If you’re interested or know someone who could benefit from this opportunity, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Contact Richard Bridgman at:

Spreading Christmas Cheer with the Nourishing Norfolk Christmas Appeal 2024

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This year at Warren, our annual Christmas raffle was about more than just festive fun, it was about giving back to our community. We were proud to support the Nourishing Norfolk Christmas Appeal 2024, a local initiative dedicated to spreading holiday cheer to families in need across Norfolk.

About the Nourishing Norfolk Christmas Appeal

For many families, the holiday season brings added pressures, and the need for support is greater than ever. Nourishing Norfolk’s food hubs play a crucial role in providing affordable food and essentials to thousands of people throughout our community. This year, they asked businesses like ours to help stock Christmas crates full of holiday treats and essentials, ensuring that every family could enjoy a festive meal, regardless of their circumstances.

A stocked Christmas crate costs less than £5 per family and includes items like gravy, stuffing, and mince pies – simple treats that can make a world of difference. With a total goal of £1,500, the appeal aimed to provide over 300 families with a little extra joy this Christmas season.

How we supported the cause

At Warren, we rallied behind this wonderful initiative through our Christmas raffle, with all proceeds going directly to the Nourishing Norfolk Christmas Appeal. As always, we included supplier gifts in the raffle, and we encouraged everyone to buy tickets to help us raise as much as possible for this fantastic cause.

A warm meal, a festive treat, and the knowledge that their community cares – these are gifts that can transform the Christmas for families facing challenges. Every donation, big or small, had a real and lasting impact. Thank you for your generosity, and for making a meaningful difference this festive season.

Building Connections and Insights: Make UK Derby Defence Event

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This month, we had the opportunity to attend the Make UK Defence event in Derby, an invaluable two-day gathering for learning about the defence sector and networking with industry professionals. Held at the Derby Football Club, the event provided a unique platform to explore opportunities and challenges within this dynamic industry.

Day one: navigating snow and making connections

The event coincided with an unexpected snowstorm, which made the journey an adventure in itself! Once settled, the day offered a mix of keynote speakers from across the defence sector and valuable networking sessions. These conversations provided a chance to engage with potential customers and learn more about their needs and expectations.

Day two: meet the buyer

The highlight of day two was the ‘Meet the Buyer’ event, where we had the chance to pitch to industry buyers. Sophie Hall, our Business Development Manager had requested eight meetings and was fortunate to secure four, although her first meeting didn’t go as planned due to a no-show. Despite that hiccup, the remaining three meetings were productive and offered valuable insights into what buyers in this sector are seeking.

Key takeaways from the event

The event was as much a learning experience as it was a networking opportunity. Here are the main insights Sophie took away from the two days:

  1. Quality is non-negotiable
    Success in the defence sector depends on a relentless focus on quality. It’s not just about meeting standards, it’s about embedding quality as a core value within your business culture.
  2. Qualifications open doors
    Having the necessary certifications and qualifications is crucial. This sector requires adherence to strict regulations, and businesses must demonstrate their ability to meet these consistently.
  3. Longevity is the reward
    Once established in the defence industry, the potential for long-term, repeat business is significant. However, getting to that point requires patience, persistence, and a commitment to building trust with clients.
  4. It takes time to establish credibility
    Breaking into the defence sector isn’t quick or easy. Building the right connections, earning trust, and proving your capabilities can take years, but the rewards are worth the effort.

Looking ahead

Attending the Make UK Defence event was a valuable step in our journey to explore opportunities in this sector. It reinforced the importance of continuous improvement in quality and qualifications while highlighting the long-term potential for businesses that persevere.

We’re excited to take what we’ve learned and apply it to our processes, ensuring we’re well-positioned to meet the demands of this challenging and rewarding industry. Thank you to Make UK for hosting such a fantastic event – we’re looking forward to the next one!