Robotics firm Cyber-Weld unveils details of new £1m factory
AN innovative engineering company in Warwickshire is applying for planning permission to build a new £1m factory complete with state-of-the-art technology.
Cyber-Weld has submitted plans to Stratford District Council to move from its current 6,500 sq ft home in Long Itchington, into a purpose-built 15,000 sq ft unit at phase two of the Holywell Business Park in Southam.
The robotic welding engineer has received a £100,000 grant from the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) through the government’s Regional Growth Fund (RGF) towards the move and the purchase of the latest technology and licenses.
Fraser Reid, managing director of Cyber-Weld, set-up the business 14 years ago and after initially being based in a barn, the company moved to Long Itchington in 2010.
He said the 14-strong business was now ready to take the next step-up as it supplies and commissions robotic welding systems in various industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to nuclear and retail packaging.
“We have purchased the land which will include a roadway in Southam and the new premises will cost £1m because we want to increase the size of our two current buildings as well as invest in new technology,” he said.
“The grant from the RGF is a great deal of money and has been a big help. We need to buy the latest software and licenses for SolidWorks and 3D modelling and the latest digital displays in engineering.”
The firm has already created three graduate technical jobs and has plans to employ a further three technicians over the next three years plus a pair of fabricators welders.
Around 90% of the firm’s business is based in the UK, with the remaining 10% going to export.
Reid said the focus moving ahead would be on training as half of the workforce was over the age of 45.
“They are passing on their skills to their younger colleagues because it is important we don’t lose their valuable knowledge. That’s why we invest in young people and pay for their training – we currently have three apprentice’s training in various colleges across the Midlands. We are presently setting up another two for a September start,” he said.
Provided planning permission is granted for the scheme then work could shortly afterwards with a view to completion next spring.
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, CWLEP board director and leader of Warwickshire County Council, said the RGF grants were making a real difference to SMEs in numerous sectors across Coventry and Warwickshire.
“It was really interesting to hear about the state-of-the-art technology being used to programme robotic welding systems and the wide range of services which Cyber-Weld provides,” she said.
“Fraser’s plans to more than double its premises will take the company into a new era as well as creating new jobs and providing a skilled workforce.
“The CWLEP is committed to boosting the economy and creating jobs and Cyber-Weld is a perfect example of this happening.”
