Glass Technology Services (GTS) has 53 employees, with some employees contracted by British Glass. Chris Holcroft, Principal Technologist, took us on a tour of the laboratory / research and development area, where we observed how the company conducts routine analysis, tests, assesses quality, and glass product innovation. GTS provides independent advice and support to the global glass manufacturing supply chain, from raw material suppliers to end users. They work with, amongst others, the pharmaceutical industry and glass, homeware and food and drink retailers, for instance on beverage glass failure analysis.
GTS also carry out research and development, new product development, technical and environmental consultancy, assessment training and quality assessment. Additionally, the company also does analysis and analytical support for the glass supply chain, from batch to end users, from properties analysis, melting, defects trouble shooting to end-user complaints and failures.
Testing includes quality assessment, environmental calculations and analysis, verification of chemical compliance and durability, composition analysis of raw materials, physical performance testing, diagnostics for solid and gaseous inclusions and offers evaluation and advice.
The company is endeavouring to create an EDI strategy imminently. They have recently started recruiting apprentices. They have a flexible working environment with a requirement for 20% working from the office however some staff cannot work from home, so this is not beneficial for all. Flexible start and finish time of 7.30am to 5.30pm is open to all employees and is particularly helpful to those with carer responsibilities. 10 days are offered (outside of annual leave) to all staff to utilise for personal domestic matters and, additionally, 5 hours per month are offered to all, to be taken whenever staff need for wellbeing needs.
Written by Ciel Newton