Sbr (Southbourne Rubber) Accelerates Growth With New Headquarters, National Awards Success And Continued Investment In Skills
Havant aerospace and defence manufacturer Southbourne Rubber (SBR) is celebrating a landmark period of growth, recognition and investment following its successful relocation to a new purpose-built headquarters at Haywards Business Centre in Hampshire.
The move marks a significant milestone in the company's transformation journey. The new 24,000 sq ft facility provides substantially increased manufacturing capacity, modern infrastructure, and enhanced capability to support SBR's growing customer base across the aerospace, defence, medical and industrial sectors. The investment positions the business for its next phase of growth while strengthening its commitment to UK manufacturing excellence.
The relocation comes during an exceptional period of national recognition for the award-winning manufacturer. SBR was named Best Apprentice Employer 2025 at the SME National Business Awards and recently secured Manufacturing / Engineering Business of the Year 2026, reflecting both its commercial success and long-term commitment to developing future talent.
Adding to the celebrations, SBR's own Libby Freemantle was awarded National Young Business Woman of the Year 2026, highlighting the calibre of emerging leadership being developed within the organisation. Her achievement is a powerful example of the opportunities available to young professionals within advanced manufacturing and demonstrates how investing in people can drive business success.(User provided information)
At the heart of SBR's success is a strong belief in apprenticeships and workforce development. More than half of the company's workforce are current or former apprentices, creating a sustainable pipeline of skilled engineers, technicians and future leaders. Several former apprentices have progressed into senior leadership positions, helping to shape the future direction of the business.
SBR's commitment to skills development has earned widespread recognition over recent years, including Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employer status and Platinum recognition from The 5% Club for its investment in "earn and learn" opportunities.
Beyond its own business, SBR actively champions apprenticeships across the UK through participation in the Apprenticeship Ambassador Network (AAN), where Managing Director Stephen Wilde serves as an SME Champion, promoting skills development and helping other employers understand the benefits of apprenticeship programmes.
As a proud member of ADS Group, the UK's trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, SBR continues to strengthen its position within critical UK supply chains while investing in advanced manufacturing capability and workforce development. The company's recent achievements demonstrate that high growth, operational excellence and meaningful investment in people can go hand in hand.
Commenting on the company's progress, Stephen Wilde said:
"The move to Haywards Business Centre is about much more than additional space. It creates the platform for our future growth, enhances our capability for customers and gives our team an environment that reflects their achievements. The awards are a fantastic recognition of the hard work, dedication and talent across the business. We remain committed to developing the next generation of manufacturing professionals and demonstrating that apprenticeships can be a powerful driver of business success."
With a new headquarters, a growing reputation for excellence, national award recognition and a proven commitment to skills development, Southbourne Rubber continues to demonstrate what is possible when investment in people and investment in manufacturing go hand in hand.
About SBR (Southbourne Rubber)
SBR is a specialist UK manufacturer of precision elastomeric components serving aerospace, defence, medical and industrial markets. Based at Haywards Business Centre, Havant, the company is recognised for its engineering expertise, commitment to quality and industry-leading investment in apprenticeships and workforce development.