Manufacturer looks to increase international trade after 150% growth in exports

Fabweld

A Shropshire manufacturer is planning to increase levels of international trade after seeing huge growth in its export business.

Fabweld Steel Products (FSP) manufactures access and drainage covers from its base in Telford.

It saw exports rise 150% during 2017 after attracting a clutch of new business.

FSP has been involved in several projects in Europe over the past 12 months, including the redesign of the ancient Elefetheria Square in Nicosia.

It also designed and manufactured replacement access covers for the entrance to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès Cannes, for civil engineers ETS Brosio, on behalf of its client, the Cannes Waste Water Syndicate.

The firm, which employs 35 people, is now casting its net outside the EU in readiness for the UK’s departure from the single market.

Managing Director Richard Hilton said the firm would use the experience it had gained within the EU to target new markets, although it is not ready just yet to abandon Europe.

“We have a strong focus in France and Germany where we have built up relationships and a reputation for providing a skilled and responsive service. No-one knows what a difference leaving the EU will make to British firms so we are also making exploratory moves towards new territories and sectors,” he said.

“Our attendance at the recent procurement event for all the major French utility companies and public authorities has generated some interesting leads that we’ll be pursuing this year.

“I have recently met with agents in the Middle East with a view to moving into that area. Our international reputation is spreading and the increase in our exports is reflected in our order book.”

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