Plant set to expand on cladding front

Sep 21 2009 By The Journal

A NORTH East firm is preparing for the economic upturn by expanding its cladding fabrication business in County Durham.

BTS Fabrications will create 22 new full-time jobs in a £240,000 project that will see the firm invest in equipment at its plant in Greenhills Business Park, Spennymoor.

Regional development agency One North East has offered the three-year-old business, a Grant for Business Investment of £84,000 to help finance the project which is hoped to help the company improve efficiency and run several large contracts at the same time.

BTS makes architectural bespoke products to the cladding industry and general fabrications including structural steelwork.

It has more than 20 customers in the cladding sector and five loyal clients from its days of producing general steel fabrications.

David Atkinson, production director said: "The project is over four years, however, the introduction of the new press and the inauguration of a Turret Punch will be the catalyst for the next three years.

"This investment will help us fulfill our vision and allow us to bring in work for our skilled employees.

"We are in a tough market place and margins have been eroded. However, we have the right culture, premises and work ethic to grow. With the guidance of One North East we see light at the end of the tunnel."

ONE director for business and industry, Ian Williams, said: "BTS Fabrications is a company that is readying itself for the economic upturn.

"It has established an excellent reputation and is using that reputation to help it grow and prosper.

"I am pleased One North East has been able to support the company’s expansion."

Go to www.businesslink.gov.uk/northeast or tel: (0845) 600-9006.