Exactaform: Leading the Way in British Manufacturing

Founding and Early Development

Established in 1979 by John Inglis, Exactaform started as a small, family-run cutting tool business in Coventry. John operated as a sole trader, taking on projects that demanded high-precision engineering but were often overlooked by larger firms.

"My grandfather built this business from nothing, relying on his technical expertise and problem-solving mindset," says Jamie White, Managing Director and third-generation leader of Exactaform.

By 1981, the company had hired its first employee, marking the start of a team-driven culture that remains at the core of Exactaform’s operations today. Over four decades later, the company has grown to a team of 90 employees in the UK and 9 in the U.S., with a turnover of £11.5 million in 2023 and ambitious plans to reach £50 million by 2030.

Technological Advancements and Industry Partnerships

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Exactaform focused on machining advanced materials, including polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and cubic boron nitride (PCBN)—a field where only a select few UK manufacturers had expertise.

"PCD and PCBN were game changers for us. They allowed us to offer cutting tools that lasted longer and performed better than traditional carbide options," Jamie explains.

In 2003, the company took a major leap forward by diversifying into rotary tooling and acquiring its first PCD EDM machine. This shift elevated Exactaform’s capabilities, allowing the company to break into high-precision industries such as aerospace and motorsport.

"That was a real moment of transformation," Jamie says. "Rotary tools gave us the ability to push into industries that needed extreme precision—like aerospace and F1. It made us a serious contender."

This momentum led to a major partnership with BAE Systems in 2006, allowing Exactaform to play a critical role in the F-35 fighter jet programme.

"At one point, the F-35 programme accounted for 90% of our business," Jamie recalls. "It was an incredible opportunity, but it also highlighted a risk—we had to diversify and ensure we weren’t dependent on one major contract."

To support its rapid expansion, Exactaform moved into a purpose-built facility in Coventry in 2017—the very site that will host the upcoming Made in Group factory tour.

"That move was a milestone for us. It allowed us to bring in cutting-edge technology, streamline production, and invest in a facility that reflects where we’re headed as a company."

Strategic Expansion and Global Reach

With a strong foundation in the UK, Exactaform set its sights on global expansion. Unlike many UK manufacturers who focus on Europe, Jamie saw greater opportunity in the U.S.

"We looked at our capabilities and asked, ‘Where’s the biggest market that speaks English?’ The answer was the U.S.," Jamie says. "But we also knew we couldn’t just copy-paste what we did in the UK—it had to be adapted for the American market."

In 2022, the company opened a manufacturing facility in Tennessee, allowing it to better serve the North American aerospace and automotive sectors.

"The U.S. has a completely different way of doing business compared to the UK. It’s not just about having the best product—it’s about how you build relationships, how you provide support, and how you prove your value," Jamie explains.

Following the success of its U.S. expansion, Exactaform formed an aerospace consortium in 2023 through two acquisitions, reinforcing its position as a global leader in precision tooling.

"We’re not just a UK business anymore—we’re a global business. But at our core, we still operate with the same family values that got us here," Jamie adds.

A People-First Approach to Manufacturing

While technology and expansion have been crucial, Jamie believes Exactaform’s real strength lies in its people.

"Anyone can buy a machine, but what makes a company successful is the people who operate it and the culture that supports them," he says.

Exactaform has built an environment that prioritises employee development, providing training, leadership opportunities, and a modern workspace.

"We’ve invested heavily in our facility—not just in machines, but in the people who make this company what it is," Jamie explains. "We have a world-class canteen, a gym, and a spotless shop floor that makes people proud to work here."

Sustainability: More Than Just a Buzzword

Sustainability is not just an afterthought at Exactaform—it is built into the DNA of its products and processes.

"We've been doing sustainability long before it became a buzzword," Jamie says. "Our tools are designed to last up to 10 times longer than standard carbide alternatives, reducing waste and cutting costs for our customers."

Exactaform’s diamond-tipped tooling can be reground, retipped, and refurbished up to 30 times, significantly reducing the need for raw materials like tungsten carbide.

Additionally, the company has implemented a heat recapture system, which redirects excess heat from compressors back into the facility, reducing overall energy consumption.

"Sustainability isn’t just about installing solar panels—it’s about making smarter products, reducing waste, and designing for longevity," Jamie notes.

Exactaform opens its doors to Made in Group Members for the first time

For the first time, Exactaform is opening its doors to Made in Group members for an exclusive Best Practice Factory Tour on 11th September at its state-of-the-art Coventry facility.

📍 Location: Exactaform, Coventry. RSVP via your Member Dashboard.
📅 Date: Thursday, 11th September
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Attendees will gain a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Exactaform operates, from its ultra-modern shop floor and cutting-edge technology to its reinvestment philosophy and strong company culture.

"Most people in engineering have never actually seen how cutting tools are made," Jamie says. "Everyone’s used them, but few understand the precision, the technology, and the problem-solving involved. This tour will change that."

This exclusive event will showcase how Exactaform balances innovation, sustainability, and employee well-being to drive long-term success.

"We’re at an exciting point in our journey. This tour isn’t just about showing what we do—it’s about sharing what we’ve learned and connecting with others who are passionate about British manufacturing," Jamie adds.

Excitement from Made in Group

Ilona Pitt, Director of Made in Group, shares her enthusiasm for the upcoming event:

"This is more than just a factory tour—it's an opportunity to step inside a world-class facility where cutting-edge technology meets a true people-first culture. Exactaform represents the best of British manufacturing—innovation, reinvestment, and a team-driven approach to success. I know attendees will be inspired by what they see and the conversations they’ll have."