Hyde Sails Cebu expands

by IBI Magazine on 30 Aug 2007 Hyde Sails, one of the UK's largest sail makers, is continuing the expansion of its sail loft in Cebu, the Philippines, as part of an aggressive investment programme. Since the sail loft was set up four years ago, the total amount of space has grown from 20,000sq ft to 55,000sq ft and now employs more than 200 members of staff.

'An aggressive investment programme has ensured that the equipment in Cebu is the best available in the market,' says the company. 'A new computer-controlled, pizza wheel cutter was purchased last year to supplement the output from the two Laser cutters transferred from the UK and a number of specialised heavy duty machines have been installed to maintain the quality of the yacht sail production.'

Hyde is now forecasting further growth for 2008, particularly in the manufacture of custom yacht sails. This section currently employs some 40 people, but production is expected to increase next year due to heightened demand.

Established in 2003, Hyde Sails Cebu manufactures sails for dinghies, one design keelboats, custom racing and cruising yachts for high-profile OEMs such as Performance Sailcraft Europe, Vanguard Boats in the US, Topper International and Northshore Yachts. Sail design work is currently carried out in the UK, although the company has plans to train a designer in Cebu to cope with increased demand.

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