Mining company makes investment in new production line

A Dorset mining and manufacturing business, Albion Stone, known for supplying stone to iconic UK buildings like Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral, has made a groundbreaking move by creating a pioneering production line. This innovative production line will produce low-carbon bricks from offcuts of Portland stone, setting the business up for future growth.

The new production line, supported by a £450,000 asset finance package from Lloyds Bank, will produce one million bricks per year as part of Albion Stone’s new Heritage Portland stone range. These bricks are created by cutting surplus Portland stone blocks into slabs and then into bricks, resulting in 75% less embodied carbon compared to traditional clay fire bricks.

This investment will allow Albion Stone to double its manufacturing capacity, diversify its product range, and increase revenue. The business has already hired five new team members and is projected to grow turnover by 20% to £10m in 2025.

Albion Stone, a fourth-generation family-owned business founded in 1952, has been a leader in the switch from quarrying to mining Portland stone. Their high-quality stones can be found in historic buildings across the UK and even internationally.

Michael Poultney, managing director of Albion Stone, expressed excitement about the new product and its potential to reduce the carbon footprint of major projects. Daren Rose, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, commended Albion Stone for their innovative approach and commitment to growth.

With plans to open a second Heritage brick range manufacturing plant, Albion Stone is poised to make a significant impact in the natural stone sector and the built environment. Their forward-thinking approach and dedication to sustainability are sure to pave the way for continued success in the years to come.