Masonlite Company Profile

COMPANY PROFILE

Masonlite was founded in 1948 by Mr. P.J Mason to fill a niche by manufacturing the short length fluorescent lamps not offered by the major manufacturers. Masonlite gradually evolved into a manufacturer of cold cathode lighting components. These comprise hollow cathode electrodes and fluorescent phosphor coated tubing, although the company also supplies a complementary range of products such as rare gases, processing equipment and tools to its customers.

The components are converted into neon or cold cathode lighting mainly by craftsmen glass benders although industrial production methods are used to some extent. To many people the most recognisable end product for our components are the neon signs that are seen in all the cities throughout the world!

Whilst a large proportion of our customers are in the sign making industry, we also serve customers with applications in the automotive, avionics and architectural lighting fields. These customers are located around the world and we deliver to more than 80 countries. More than 75% of our production volume is exported. Masonlite is internationally recognised as the world leader in its field.

Neon lighting provides the sign maker with a medium unparalleled in its brilliance, legibility and the spectacular range of colours which can be shaped to the demands of the sign. For the architect these same attributes may be used to outline parts of a building such as a roof line or an entrance but is particularly used where its fluidity of design encourages its use for both decorative and ambient lighting. This form of lighting not only stands on cosmetic benefits but its low power consumption and longevity which outlasts most fluorescent lamps many time over, makes it very cost effective. These same aspects are employed in automotive and avionics fields where brightness, low power consumption and longevity are required for a light source.

To retain our world class position, to increase our share in existing markets and to enter new areas, the last decade has seen a major investment programme incorporating new manufacturing techniques and equipment. All manufacturing is now cellular based, raw materials are mainly brought in on a JIT programme and the philosophy of continuous improvement implemented. The new methods demand a very high standard of teamwork and the training of personnel more familiar with assembly line methods was necessary. With the Company's commitment to continuous improvement and total quality, training is seen as a constant requirement.

To take advantage of modern strategies has required many changes and in 1994 Masonlite commenced the process for accreditation under ISO 9002. In itself it does not ensure quality but it enforces a review of procedures and instills a discipline for the future. Masonlite believes that the quality of both its products and customer support are key factors in the strategy for future growth.

To support our customers, as well as our production and technical departments, we have a glass shop capable of converting our components into products. These can be used for stress or life testing or actually undertaking a project for a trade customer. The commercial sign and lighting work we do gives us a window into the industries we serve, which assists us in appreciating the needs of our customers.

We also assist in the development of our future customers, as for many years, Masonlite operated The British School of Neon. Here students from around the world are taught the craft of glass bending and processing in a structured courses of up to 20 weeks duration.

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