Universal Batteries - Long-life Business Power

 

Universal Batteries, a subsidiary of India-based BUI Private Ltd, started manufacturing in 2003.

Being based in South Wales has enabled Universal Batteries to take advantage of an established battery culture, a strong labour pool, and very low employee NI of just 11% - compared to 50% in some European countries.

Universal Batteries has received considerable assistance from International Business Wales, including a mentor to help write the business plan and attract investment, and who still takes an active interest in the business.

“The grants and support structure in Wales are a major attraction – the help we’ve received is invaluable.”

Before Univeral Batteries was established, BUI Pvt had a small sales and assembly base in London, but was suffering problems in design, quality and logistics, so it called in a consultant to help.

Dr Mike McDonagh, a Wales-based battery industry expert, conducted a review of their operations, which resulted in the board of BUI Pvt deciding to set up a dynamic and responsive new company in Wales with Dr McDonagh as MD and shareholder.

“Major Indian business leaders I’ve met agree that it’s best to get a UK guy to handle the set-up and manage the local issues.”

Universal Batteries now assembles batteries to order from components shipped from India, rather than importing ready-made units – this prevents out-of-stock issues, and saves costs, delivery time and storage space.

From its base in Brynmawr, Universal Batteries now exports across Europe, and is on track in 2007 to turn over £2m from 50,000 unit sales, growing to £5m in two years and £10m in 5 years. This will require both new premises and BUI Pvt to expand its manufacturing capability by 300%. “We can’t make enough!” says Mike.

“There’s something common between Wales and India that’s more than just being able to talk to each other in English – it’s an attitude and approach that works perfectly together.” Dr Mike McDonagh, MD Universal Batteries