Norton Gets UK Funding to Expand Manufacturing, Develop ‘Green’ Model

A limited edition Norton Dominator SS model motorcycle. Photo courtesy Norton Motorcycles.

Norton Motorcycles Ltd. said it has received UK government funding to support 600 new jobs at its factory, including 200 new apprenticeships.

The UK’s Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative (AMSCI) has supplied £4 million ($6.2 million) that Norton will use to build a 10,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, develop a new clean motorcycle engine technology to reportedly power a new “green” Norton motorcycle within two years, and establish an academy to supply engineering apprentices to Norton and other supply chain partners.

Norton clarified that the AMSCI funding will result in 159 “direct” jobs at Norton, which the company expects will grow into 600 direct and indirect jobs, including 200 apprentices, over five years.

“This investment will secure the long-term future of UK motorcycle manufacturing within Norton and its supply chain partners, re-shoring skills lost to UK manufacturing and helping them meet increasing global demand,” the company stated in a press release.

“Norton is an iconic British brand revered around the world. We’ve worked steadfastly in the last six years to bring Norton back with an authentic British built motorcycle. Training and skills are key to our industry. Putting down a dedicated Academy for the British motorcycle industry finally gives us a sustainable future,” said Stuart Garner, chief executive at Norton. “To see solid government support for the manufacturing industry like this is hugely heart-warming and gives us great confidence in bringing the industry back to the UK, creating jobs, learning forgotten skills and enabling exports around the world — all in the full knowledge that we have great support and a solid base back home.”