Smiths Detection today announced the official opening of its new UK centre of excellence for trace detection, located in Hemel Hempstead. The new facility, which is located approximately 11 miles from its previous location in Watford, provides improved and more efficient customer operations; new amenities for employees; and the opportunity for future growth and development.

This modern “fit for purpose” facility, which covers a total of 67,000 square feet, provides excellent capabilities for engineering, research and manufacturing. It has been specifically designed to ensure that maximum operational efficiencies are achieved across every area of its operation, supporting the long term business growth for Smiths Detection.

Delivering state of the art security solutions to key markets including aviation, military and emergency responders, the products manufactured previously at Watford and now at the Hemel Hempstead site are truly impressive. To date more than 25,000 explosive detectors and over 220,000 chemical detectors have been manufactured at Smiths Detection’s facilities and delivered to customers across the globe.

“The relocation of our operations to our new state of the art facility here in Hemel Hempstead was a necessary step to ensure that we remain competitive on a global scale,” commented Richard Ingram, President of Smiths Detection. “We had quite simply outgrown our previous facility in Watford and needed a site that would allow us to respond quickly and adapt to our customers’ growing demands. Close to 300 employees have moved to Hemel Hempstead and I would like to thank the hard-working project team which made this possible.”

The Rt Hon Mr Mike Penning, MP for Hemel Hempstead, officially opened the facility as guest of honour. He commented “I’m delighted to be able to welcome Smiths Detection to the area. Hemel Hempstead is a growing town and, with access to skilled people and good infrastructure, more and more technology companies like Smiths Detection are moving into this area and driving demand for even more skilled employees”.