A COMPANY which supplies specialist tooling and robotic automation systems around the world has taken on 25 workers at its new North East base.

Coventry firm Expert Tooling and Automation ran a one-man operation in Sunderland for four years before recently moving into a larger site at the Armstrong Industrial Estate in Washington after a surge in demand in the region.

The company, which supplies its specialist assembly tooling and machines to businesses including Nissan in Sunderland and Tallent Automotive in Newton Aycliffe, has invested heavily in its new base.

Managing director Angelo Luciano said: “We have had some very important customers in the North East for a number of years, but found it challenging to service them effectively due to the high level of support our industry demands, so realised we had to develop the business we had in the region.

“Not only was the proximity to our customers important, but there is also a very strong skills base in the North East, which we were keen to take advantage of.

“Since we moved into our new Washington base, it has without doubt become a fundamental part of the business, I have to say I have been blown away by the commitment, work ethic and attitude of the local workforce we have employed.”

Sunderland City Council helped bring the firm to the city. Deputy leader Coun Henry Trueman said: “It is always especially pleasing when businesses from outside of this region choose Sunderland as a base for their operations, and Expert Tooling is already reaping the rewards of doing that with their skilled new staff.”