UK firms bid to build American homes

UK manufacturers of timber frame housing panels are targeting the USA following a visit by a high-powered trade delegation from the States this week.

The American firms visited manufacturers throughout the West Midlands to boost trade links with Structural Insulation Panel (SIP) makers across the region.

UK Trade & Investment organised for a delegation from the USA to attend the launch event of the UK Structured Insulated Panel Association – UKSIPS – in Birmingham.

Members include the principal SIP manufacturers, industry suppliers and professionals involved with design and construction using SIP technology. 

The event attracted 120 delegates, who were addressed by Bill Wachtler of the international Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) USA, Andrew Orriss, the chairman of UKSIPS, John Tebbitt of the Construction Products Association, and Peter Barr of SIP Build. 

The delegation from the USA also attended several site and factory visits throughout the West Midlands during their three-day visit.

International trade adviser Cheryl Astley, based at North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, who organised the inward visit, said: "We were delighted to welcome the SIPA group to this region, where they were very impressed to see how the West Midlands is leading the way for the UK in this important industry sector.

"We hope that this will now lead to increased international business for West Midlands companies."