A LAWNMOWER maker has reached a significant production milestone as demand for its products continues to rise.

Husqvarna has made its one millionth robotic lawnmower at its factory in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham.

The 130,000sq meters site has been manufacturing the products since 2006, having first launched the technology just over a decade earlier.

Bosses at the company, based on Aycliffe Business Park, said the milestone marked a “landmark occasion for British manufacturing”.

Kai Warn, president of the Husqvarna Group, said: “Celebrating one million environmentally friendly robotic mowers is a milestone for us.

“More than 20 years ago, we created the robotic mower market and we have developed it ever since to become true leaders in the market."

The firm, a subsidiary of Sweden’s Husqvarna Group, is known for its Flymo, Gardena and McCulloch brands.

Paul Coates, aftersales manager, said it was a “very proud” moment for the company.

“The demand for our robotic lawnmower is continuing to grow – it is by far our biggest grower.

“It is a testament to the company and a testament to our site in Newton Aycliffe which has been a manufacturing force for robotic mowing."

Earlier this year, The Northern Echo exclusively revealed Husqvarna was taking on around 800 temporary staff to meet seasonal summer demand.

The company confirmed yesterday it also still intends to fill 75 permanent posts at its Newton Aycliffe site.

During a visit to the factory, Sedgefield MP Phil Wilson said he was “proud” to be a part of the celebrations.

“It is another great day for a business in Newton Aycliffe,” he said.

“There are some great companies like Hitachi and Finley Structures, amongst many others, and it is great to see another of them going from strength to strength."

  • See next week's Jobs & Business to find out more about Husqvarna's future plans