Glass Engineer Richard ‘Ashley’ Alder founded Precision Glass Bending in 1993,
bringing thirty years of industry experience to his vision for a next century company
focused on the potential of glass with shape. A natural hands-on innovator, his extensive
glass technology background combined with a strict work ethic has forged a capable
and highly efficient production regime. The oldest of his four sons, Russ Alder, joined the
company in 1996 beginning a third generation of family commitment to the glass industry.
Russ brought an Asian Studies and Economics degree from Australia and core skills in
software, communications, and international business. He leads an administrative team
with diverse talents that complement the core competency in production.
Drawing upon the management strength of three successive generations of glassmaking
in Europe and the United States, the company has expanded by combining impeccable
quality, affordable pricing, flexible custom production, and fast ‘no hassle’ delivery.
The upshots of continuous development, these achievements are the result of
patented methods, proprietary software, space-age equipment, and the care and dedication
of a professional manufacturing team. Indeed, the results attained by the team have earned
the company a worldwide reputation for excellence and leadership in bent safety
glass technologies.
Allen Alder began
the family commitment to glass now in its third generation.
Upon return from distinguished service in India during the Second
World War,
Allen took a partnership in the glass firm Hartley Wood & Sons
in Sunderland,
England. An English gentleman, his strong leadership and character
transformed this venerable manufacturer into a globally trusted
name for fine
handmade glass. The elegant antique glass produced by the company
can be
seen in many British historical sites including Westminster Abbey,
St Paul’s
Cathedral, and the House of Commons.
Allen’s sons, Ashley and Nigel, joined their father in the glass industry.
Ashley brought an engineering degree in glass technology from Sheffield
University. The two sons infused the artisan heritage of the company with
new technologies, a strategy rewarded by a two-year order backlog and a
Queen’s award for export success. Allen retired in 1982 following outright
purchase of the company by the Pilkington Group. Ashley immigrated with
his family to the United States to seek new opportunities in the American
glass industry. Nigel remains active in the British glass industry.
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Hartley-Wood Brochure:
Finest English Antique Glass |
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Hartley-Wood Brochure:
English Antique Glass |
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Hartley-Wood Brochure:
Glass Experience |
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