The factory produces both Danum TLE large format concrete tiles and plain concrete tiles on two production lines. It will complement Wienerberger’s existing tile factories in Yorkshire, enhancing national manufacturing capacity. The Smeed Dean site has a long history, operating since the 1840s for traditional London Stock bricks, and was acquired by Wienerberger in 1994.
Keith Barker, Chief Operating Officer, said: “Launching Smeed Dean [tile factory] is about more than expanding our national manufacturing footprint – it’s about building for what’s next. Increasing our production capacity in the south and investing in decarbonised operations have been key priorities for us, so it is extremely rewarding to see these cutting-edge production lines up and running to deliver products that will support the UK’s evolving housing needs.”
The facility is Wienerberger’s first fully electrified concrete tile plant, powered by renewable energy. It incorporates smart lighting, heat recovery systems to improve energy efficiency, and a 10,000-litre rainwater harvesting system. The factory also participates in The Pallet Loop scheme, which promotes the reuse of pallets to reduce waste.
The new Smeed Dean facility strengthens Wienerberger’s production network in the UK, providing increased capacity for both residential and commercial roofing projects. By combining modern manufacturing technologies with sustainable operations, the plant aligns with the company’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and supporting environmentally responsible building practices.
Overall, the factory represents a strategic investment in southern England, delivering both increased output and advanced, energy-efficient production methods. Its operations are expected to meet growing housing demands while supporting sustainable supply chains across the UK construction sector.
