A £1million investment in the latest and most technically advanced equipment available is already delivering results for Consort Equipment Products – increasing its capacity and capability and supporting its export drive to China.
The investment, backed by £385,000 from the Wales Economic Growth Fund, has already created thirteen new jobs and safeguarded a further 37 at its headquarters in Milford Haven, within Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone. The business currently employs 100 people, including some seasonal staff.
On a visit to the company today (Wednesday November 26) , Economy Minister Edwina Hart officially launched the new fibre laser cutting machine and saw at first hand its ability to cut intricate metal profiles at three times the speed of its predecessor .
The Minister said: “ It’s really good news to hear the difference this investment is making and the fact Consort has already created new jobs and taken on seasonal staff to cope with the increased demand for their products.
“The Wales Economic Growth Fund was set up to help businesses in Wales take advantage of market opportunities as they arise and I am delighted to hear that this is exactly what Consort has done and is increasing sales in the UK and overseas.”
The company supplies the top end of the market with an extensive range of electric heaters sold through electrical wholesalers in the UK and China. In addition to designing and manufacturing heaters, Consort also provides a contract metal fabrication service for businesses throughout the UK.
MD Ed Spankie said: “ News of our investment in three key items of equipment has already attracted a significant amount of interest from businesses in South Wales and we are in advanced discussions with a number about potential new contracts.
“Support from the Welsh Government was invaluable and we now have the fastest laser in the west which has increased our capacity and capability. We increased sales last year by 10% and on target to achieve a similar increase this year and would have struggled to keep up with this growing demand without this new equipment.
“The message we are sending out loudly and clearly is that we can carry out work for any businesses looking sheet metal work.”
Mr Spankie said the new machinery was being used this week to deliver an order of 1000 heaters for the Chinese market where two new products developed by Consort are also currently being evaluated.
Consort has also seen the highest orders to date from Belgium- they supply Bell Fruit with metal cabinets for gaming machines.