Ashburton-based medical device manufacturer BOWA Medical UK celebrated the ‘topping out’ of its new site in Kingskerswell on Monday (February 3).

Topping out is the milestone reached in construction when the final beam is placed on top of a building, marking the completion of its structure.

BOWA marked the occasion with a German ‘Richtfest’ at the site on Oak Tree Business Park, reflecting the firms German links.

Jens Krober, CEO of the BOWA Medical group, travelled from Germany to join directors from the UK part of the firm along with representatives from Teignbridge District Council and personnel from the construction teams and architects.

BOWA Medical was founded in Ashburton in 1978 and became part of German firm BOWA-electronic in 2016,

The topping out ceremony combined the firm’s German and Devonian heritage with a toast of German beer being raised for the good fortune of the building and its future occupants followed by a Devon cream tea under the rafters.

‘In German culture, this moment is often marked by gratitude to the team who brought the project to life – brick by brick and beam by beam,’ explained BOWA Medical UK managing director Chris Graham. ‘So let me take a moment to echo that sentiment and extend our deepest thanks to all the people who have made this vision a reality.’

BOWA Medical hopes to open its new Kingskerswell site in September. It will manufacture the firm’s LOTUS ultrasonic surgical instrument, which is used to cut soft tissue while minimising blood loss. The site will also serve as the firm’s UK operational and training hub and create room for future expansion, which is expected to create more jobs in the local area.

‘The topping out ceremony marks significant progress on a project that will provide a state-of-the-art facility,’ commented Devon Contractors managing director Nigel Whelan. ‘A huge well done to our dedicated team, supply chain partners, and the client team for their collaboration and commitment,’ he added.