Spotlight on Fenner Precision Polymers: Putting Businesses in Motion Across the World
Fenner Precision Polymers is a well known business in Lincoln, with prominent premises on Tritton Road near the university. But did you know that this long-established manufacturer is now part of the global Michelin Group of companies?
Manufacturing in Lincoln
Fenner Precision Polymers specialises in manufacturing critical components that power and propel industries forward. The business started out as James Dawson in 1886 making leather boots, and a century later the business (now making belting and hoses) was acquired by Fenner Group before the Michelin acquisition in 2018, becoming Fenner Precision Polymers.
With over a century of experience as a global manufacturer, Fenner Precision Polymers is an integral part of the tiered supply chain to manufacturers in areas from industrial motion and air and fluid handling to high-tech coated fabrics.
From materials to solutions, Fenner Precision Polymers leverages material science and business expertise to solve complex technical issues for its customers.
Marketing Co-ordinator Steven Downing explained that Fenner Precision Polymers manufactures a plethora of products in Lincoln, primarily silicone and organic rubber hoses for use on large engines, for example in the mining industry.
The company’s Lincoln site is the only one in the global group that manufactures products in all three areas: air and fluid handling (hoses), industrial motion (belting) and high-tech coated fabrics.
“We’ve got two sites on Tritton Road in Lincoln where we employ 350 people, across both office and shop floor,” said Steven. “We’re a big employer for the city and we’re manufacturing seven days a week.”
Future strategy
As well as its Lincoln sites, Fenner Precision Polymers has manufacturing facilities in the United States, China and Italy. The UK-based business mainly serves the construction, mining, agriculture, automotive and aerospace sectors, while globally the group works in a diverse range of industries from aerospace, building and infrastructure to food and beverage and material handling.
“As part of our ongoing business strategy, we’re constantly exploring new markets, innovative products, and a stronger connection to our customers while improving our sustainability footprint,” said Steven.
“Acquiring the Fenner Group in 2018 was part of Michelin’s strategy to grow exponentially in areas beyond tyres, and we are a good fit as part of Michelin’s Polymer Composite Solutions group.”
Committed to Lincoln
“Lincoln is a good location for us, and in recent years there’s been constant investment in the two sites,” said Steven. “As we’re based in the UK the supply chains are short and we can reach the rest of the UK or the EU quite easily; we’re physically close to the majority of our customers, and they appreciate the speed and agility with which we operate.
“In the past we haven’t been all that active in the local area, but we’re keen to engage with local stakeholders and add value back into the community. Joining Team Lincolnshire is part of that, as are other local activities and partnerships.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to our people and our communities, we continue our focus on our charitable work and we have donated £4,500 that we raised to the Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance in 2024.
“We’re also taking part in an event with Team Lincolnshire for National Manufacturing Day in September to raise our profile locally, engage with potential employees, and promote Lincolnshire as a manufacturing hub. So keep an eye out for more details on that!
“We’re very keen to support Team Lincolnshire!”
