For customers old and new, this investment means one thing above all else; a faster, smoother, more joined-up fabrication service.
A community-focused launch
The arrival of the Bodor I7 wasn’t just a machinery delivery. MPL welcomed Made in the Midlands, alongside representatives from Coundon Court Ladies FC, Coventry Rugby FC, and Myton Hospice, all organisations proudly supported by MPL through ongoing sponsorship and annual donations.
It was a fitting way to launch a machine that represents both growth and commitment for the business and the people, and community around it.
Martin Watts, from the Myton Hospices, said “We at Myton are so grateful to everyone at MPL for their ongoing support and generosity. We only get 17% of our funding from the NHS, so, at a time when demand for our services continues to rise – and we are the only inpatient hospice beds in the whole of Coventry & Warwickshire – it’s so inspiring to receive regular donations from local companies like MPL."
Confidence on the factory floor
For the team at MPL, the new laser is a clear signal of confidence in the future. Since being at the helm, Managing Director Kevin Duffy has continued to invest in people, skills and technology with the Bodor I7 the latest example of that commitment.
By bringing laser cutting fully in-house, MPL is removing reliance on external subcontractors and taking greater control of quality, scheduling and lead times.
“It’s a natural progression for us and one we’ve been thinking about for a long time. Now, instead of sending work out, we’re keeping it under our control in our own factory, meaning fewer delays, reliance on external suppliers and a quicker turnaround for our customers.,” Kevin explains.
What the Bodor I7 will bring…
From a technical perspective, the Bodor I7 adds real strength to MPL’s existing capabilities. With a 1.5m x 3m cutting bed, the laser is being used to deliver high-efficiency production across:
- Mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium up to 8mm (with capacity up to 10mm for specific applications)
- Galvanised steel up to 3mm, managed safely and responsibly
While the machine is capable of cutting up to 25mm, MPL’s current focus is on optimising efficiency, material handling and throughput to ensure the safest and most productive workflow for the team.
For customers, this translates into:
- Shorter lead times
- Improved consistency
- Greater flexibility on batch and repeat work
- Fewer handovers between suppliers
MPL are now a truly end-to-end fabrication partner
The laser investment strengthens MPL’s position as a complete fabrication partner, offering:
- Laser cutting
- CNC punching
- CNC bending / press brake work
- MIG & TIG welding (including coded welding)
- Powder coating
- Batch production and bespoke fabrication
- Lift components and lift hoarding kits
- Secure storage and call-off work
- In-house delivery using MPL vehicles
Everything is handled under one roof from raw material through to finished, delivered product which simply makes the process easier and far more predictable for customers.
Growth, jobs and looking ahead
Supported in part by a £20,000 local council grant, the investment is expected to support a 20% increase in revenue over the next 12 months, putting MPL on track for an annual turnover of £1.5 million. It has also created new employment opportunities, with at least one and a half new roles linked directly to the laser’s operation.
With the Bodor I7 now coming fully online, a healthy backlog of work already queued, and nationwide delivery in place, MPL is well positioned for continued growth while maintaining its family-run values and local roots.
Come and see it for yourself
MPL Fabrications welcomes customers, partners and prospective clients to visit the Coventry facility and see the Bodor I7 and the wider factory in action.
Whether you’re exploring new suppliers, struggling with capacity, or simply want to understand what’s possible, the team is always happy to show you around and talk through your requirements.
📩 [email protected]
📞 024 7661 0778
