Vauxhall Luton has been recognised by the British Chamber of Commerce as a UK Business Hero, after its staff helped assemble and deliver more than 13,000 ventilators for the NHS to combat the Covid-19 virus.
In October, the British Chambers of Commerce alongside the local Chamber network launched a campaign recognising the incredible work UK businesses have done to support local communities in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Between April and July, a handpicked team of 15 Vauxhall workers from its Luton plant completed a 16-week assignment at Smiths Medical, a division of Smiths Group plc, working as part of a consortium that helped to deliver 13,437 ventilators to the NHS.
Following a week of training, the team helped to assemble 20 to 30 life-saving ventilator units a week. Towards the end of the assignment, production rose to hundreds of ventilators a week – surpassing all expectations. Vauxhall’s staff conducted in-line quality tests as the ventilators were produced, ensuring they meet the high standards required by the NHS.
“I am extremely proud that staff from Vauxhall Motors have been able to make such a valuable contribution during the pandemic, and that this has resulted in being recognised as a UK Business Hero,” said Stephen Norman, Managing Director, Vauxhall Motors. “In our production plants, our teams are used to working where repeatable, high quality standards are essential.”
Vauxhall UK was nominated for the recognition by the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Justin Richardson, Chief Executive of the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The UK Business Hero stamp was created to pay tribute to those businesses and individuals that have gone the extra mile and make a vital contribution in these difficult times.
“Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Vauxhall Motors and all the staff involved for their contribution and responding to the ‘herculean task’ of meeting the production needs for frontline workers.”
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