The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor David Stewart Bell, officially opened the new facility, which will act as the centre for the plant's education and training programmes, the first of which focuses on a management development programme. This will then be cascaded throughout the organisation as part of the strategy to sustain world class manufacturing performance.
Peter Little, Manager of the programme, said: "We are under constant pressure to sustain world class performance in order to survive tough competition. This new Education and Training centre confirms our commitment of investing in our employees and the plant as we look forward to continued success and growth."
"The new facility creates a professional learning environment for all our employees who are encouraged to be a positive coach at every opportunity."
The Mayor of Solihull added: "I was delighted to be asked to open the facility and have the opportunity to see first-hand the plant and meet the employees. It is reassuring to see that Jaguar Land Rover is continually investing in the longevity of the business and I am proud to support these British manufacturing brands which greatly enrich the economy of the region."
Following the opening of the education and training facilities, the Mayor and Mayoress of Solihull, Mrs Sally Bell, took the opportunity to drive off-road on Land Rover's famous Jungle Track to experience the capabilities of one of the world's most versatile vehicles.
Claire Tallis
Press Office
Land Rover
T: 01926 648063
ctallis@landrover.com
About Land Rover
* Since 1948 Land Rover has been manufacturing authentic 4x4s that represent true 'breadth of capability' across the model range. Defender, Freelander 2, Discovery 3, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover each define the world's 4x4 sectors, with 78% of this model range exported to 169 countries. Land Rover employs 8,500 people and supports a further 40,000 jobs in the supply chain
* Land Rover takes its responsibility to the environment seriously. Emissions have been cut with all new models and, together with Jaguar, it is investing £700m on technology specifically aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Also, since September 2006, carbon dioxide generated by Land Rover manufacturing activities and UK customer vehicle use has been balanced through an industry leading offset programme run by Climate Care
* Land Rover through the G4 Challenge will raise over £1 million for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies