Devon based company Lorient, celebrated its 40th anniversary on 1st August 2019. Lorient is a market leading designer and manufacturer of high performance sealing systems for acoustic, smoke, fire and energy containment.
Founded in 1979, Lorient was responsible for introducing intumescent technology for fire doors to the UK; and the first combined fire and smoke seal was created in a small industrial unit in Surrey. Intumescent seals are a vital part of a fire door assembly, helping to defend buildings against the spread of fire. Smoke seals restrict smoke movement around a building – giving people time to escape, and reducing property damage.
Lorient’s flagship acoustic, smoke and fire seal products now sit within a comprehensive range including fire resistant glazing systems for doors, screens and partitions; fire and smoke resistant damper/air transfer grilles for doors, walls and ducts; and a range of fire resistant door hardware. In 2013, Lorient launched a commercial testing and technical services division including acoustic testing, indicative fire testing as well as fire door inspection services – with 5 fully qualified fire door inspectors in 2019.
The Lorient Group has grown to encompass businesses around the world and has established presence in Australia, the Middle East, USA as well as the UK, Singapore and Hong Kong.
While the company’s services and operations have expanded, its underlying principles have remained the same. Proudly a Made in Britain company, Lorient designs and manufactures the highest quality sealing systems that protect people and property throughout commercial, public, residential and industrial buildings. Through constant development, evolution and refinement, Lorient has created many industry firsts; always underpinned by independent third-party accreditation, and extensively tested to relevant building codes and regulations.
Today, Lorient is recognised worldwide for quality, technical capability, and service; with over 100 employees and 100s of products in its range. In December 2018, Lorient was acquired by ASSA ABLOY – the global leader in opening solutions; which brings a wealth of technology, resource and capability to support customers.
Speaking of the anniversary Kerry Hicks, Managing Director said: “We are incredibly proud to celebrate 40 years in business. It provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our history, and look forward to an exciting future as part of ASSA ABLOY. We owe our successful 40 years to our great teams past and present; most importantly to our loyal customers – without them, we wouldn’t be Lorient. Here’s to the next 40 years!”
To honor the landmark 40th anniversary Lorient will be launching a number of marketing initiatives; which included a brand-new website earlier this year – www.lorientuk.com. A family fun day was held on 2nd August 2019 for staff and their families to celebrate this momentous occasion.
