From defence to energy, Glassworks Hounsell (GWH) combines heritage, innovation, and agility to deliver complex, low-volume builds for critical UK and global markets.
“We’re a problem-solving, build-to-print partner for clients who require engineered confidence in complex applications,” shares Neil Ferguson, Managing Director of West Midlands-based Glassworks Hounsell (GWH). A specialist in precision-engineered, low-volume, high-value fabrication and machining, the company’s capabilities include large-scale CNC milling, heavy-duty welding, and full mechanical assembly and integration.
Founded in 1877, GWH draws on a rich industrial heritage and a tradition of craftsmanship that continues to guide its values and operations today. Its ISO 9001 certification has been held for nearly two decades. Whether manufacturing new components, refurbishing legacy parts, delivering spares or providing expert advice, GWH is earning the trust of clients across Aerospace and Defence with a view to extending this into Nuclear and Subsea.
“What sets us apart is our ability to combine flexibility with quality at scale. We’re not a production line,” notes Neil. “Few UK manufacturers can offer in-house machining & fabrication on this scale while maintaining traceability, confidentiality, and responsiveness across the entire lifecycle of a component. Our agility and engineering depth allow us to outpace larger players when it comes to one-off or technically complex builds.”
From initial concept and design through to manufacturing, assembly, and final delivery, GWH prides itself on offering a joined-up, end-to-end service. With large-bed CNC milling capabilities, expert welding, and fabrication for structural assemblies, and dedicated clean, secure bays for mechanical assembly and finishing, the company is well-equipped to meet the demands of critical sectors. Increasingly, it is applying its capabilities to full project-managed manufacturing, particularly in highly regulated markets where quality, control, and traceability are essential.
In recent years, GWH has made significant investments to deepen and expand these strengths. It has upgraded its core CNC infrastructure to accommodate over-3m bed work, added experienced QHSE personnel, and enhanced its quality assurance procedures to align with future AS9100 and MOD accreditations. The business has also strengthened its strategic focus on Defence, Aerospace and Advanced Energy, working in partnership on technology-led bids involving secure cabinet and subframe manufacturing.
With new hires in leadership and advisory roles drawn from classified and defence sectors, and the establishment of a dedicated business development function targeting regulated and export-sensitive markets, GWH is positioning itself as a dependable Tier 2 partner for OEMs and government-backed programmes seeking secure, UK-based manufacturing.
Enduring Success
Success has been underpinned by a strong focus on training and development, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. The company invests in apprenticeships to grow the next generation of welders and machinists, while also upskilling its experienced workforce in areas such as digital tooling, CMM inspection, and technical documentation.
By cross-training teams across multiple disciplines – including welding, turning, milling and fitting – GWH ensures greater flexibility on the shop floor and faster response to project demands. A “right first time” ethos runs throughout the business, empowering senior engineers to lead by example and pass on vital knowledge in a hands-on, collaborative environment.
Similarly, modernisation has played a key role in maintaining GWH’s competitive edge in both its traditional and emerging markets. The company has digitised key processes, including drawings, build management, and traceability systems, enabling more seamless workflows and real-time tracking of materials and progress. Investments in machining technology have expanded its capacity to take on larger and more intricate components, while dedicated, secure assembly spaces support the demands of defence, aerospace, and other regulated industries.
Indeed, Neil notes recent successes, including securing work on UK sovereign defence projects for marine applications, machining large mooring system components. GWH has also maintained its ISO 9001:2015 accreditation again. In addition, it has formalised internal MOD-aligned documentation and compliance policies and developed its capability to both manufacture fabricated & machined components together with assembly & testing of hydraulic actuators for military vehicles.
“The greatest opportunities appear to be coming from Defence & Aerospace, where the emphasis is on sovereign capability, reliable UK content, and traceability,” says Neil. “Post-COVID supply chain disruption and current geopolitical volatility have accelerated demand for domestic engineering partners who can handle bespoke work under sensitive conditions. That’s exactly where GWH thrives.”
Looking ahead, GWH is focused on cementing its role as a trusted partner within the UK’s critical manufacturing landscape. Having been successful without them, the company is also now preparing to put in place AS9100 and Cyber Essentials Plus, while actively pursuing long-term partnerships within UK Defence and Aerospace OEM frameworks.
These efforts form part of a broader ambition: to position GWH as a sovereign-capable UK manufacturer with the scale, discretion and agility required to support high-specification, small-batch work for some of the country’s most vital national programmes. With a legacy built on quality and a future driven by innovation, GWH is ready to meet the demands of the next generation of precision engineering.
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