Sheffield-based Galaxy Insulation & Dry Lining has opened a ninth UK depot in response to increased customer demand and forecasted growth.

The new 37,000 sq ft depot is located in Newcastle, serving customers across the North East. It is headed by Stephen Mann, who has more than 20 years’ experience in insulation and dry lining distribution.

Mann said he was excited to spearhead Galaxy’s expansion into the North East and added: “Customer service is paramount, and Galaxy is a company focused on its customers. Our expansion into the North East means we can meet that increased demand.”

Galaxy managing director Tracy Shepherd said the launch of the Newcastle depot marked a major step forward for the company’s growth plans.

“We have always wanted a presence in the North East but knew it was vital to have a local team with the right experience and understanding of what customers in the area expect,” he said.

“We are certain we now have the right team, led by Stephen, to deliver the competitiveness, expertise and service that the businesses in the area deserve.

“Our model is to keep things as simple as possible so the team on the ground have everything they need to provide the best customer service possible.”

Galaxy, which was founded in South Yorkshire in 2009, has depots in Sheffield, Leeds, Haydock, Birmingham, West Brom, Bedford and two in London. It now employs 225 people and is an independent supplier to the insulation industry.

In 2020 the company launched Galaxy Technical Services (GTS) which aims to provide customers with a complete insulation solution offering impartial, cost effective and compliant technical guidance. GTS provides SAP calculations and EPC’s free of charge and regularly saves clients large sums of money on their material build costs offering value engineer specifications.

The company’s growth has been rapid since a management buy-out in 2019. More new locations are planned, and Galaxy recently appointed leading Yorkshire businessman Sir Rodney Walker as non-executive group chairman.

He will provide direction for Galaxy’s strategic growth plan and work towards a potential stock market listing.