A South Derbyshire engineering company has received grant support from Derby Enterprise Growth Fund (DEGF) to kick start its investment and job creation program.
JB Engineering (Hatton) Ltd, which specialises in steel fabrication and laser profiling, has been awarded a £112,000 grant towards their £½ million program to update the workshop and invest in new equipment.
The increased capabilities afforded by the machinery and equipment will enable the company to grow its workforce from 17 to 21 in the coming year, with further expansion planned in 2015.
The £20 million DEGF which is supported by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund and run by Derby City Council, provides grants and loans to support growth, innovation and job creation in Derby and the surrounding area.
JB Engineering (Hatton) Ltd Company Secretary, Helen Williams explained that the first job had been to replace the roof of the workshop.
She said: “Although the 1950’s roof has been subject to regular repairs our attempts to keep the workshop weather proof were no longer sufficient.
“We desperately needed to replace the whole roof before we invested further in the activities that take place in that workshop. Without the support of DEGF, we would not have been able to carry out this work so it was key to our future expansion.”
The roof work is now nearing completion, along with the installation and commissioning of new CAD software, IT equipment and an Amada press brake.
Company Director Nathan Laban continued: “The new press brake has improved efficiency, reduced waste and has the facility to store customer job details.
“It is also environmentally friendly as it powers the hydraulic pumps off when not in use and it allows us to produce more intricately bent fabricated pieces.
“The addition of the press complements our existing laser profiling and metal fabrication services, meaning we offer a one stop shop, from laser profiling, bending to fabrication.”
The company is now ready to expand their business and is looking to recruit Engineering fabricators and fitters to support this growth. To apply go to Universal Job Match www.gov.uk/jobsearch and search for JB Engineering (Hatton) Ltd.
Family-owned JB Engineering (Hatton) Ltd was established in 1971. Managing Director, Jayne Bellenie said: “We pride ourselves on offering quality goods and services. Our genuine commitment to after sales care has ensured that we maintain a loyal customer base.”
Derby City Council Director of Regeneration Richard Williams is a member of the DEGF panel of financial and industry experts who consider business applications.
He said: “Derby and the surrounding area have a wealth of small and medium sized manufacturing businesses who continue to thrive.
“They are vital links in the wider manufacturing supply chain but need additional investment to update their equipment in order to grow and create more local jobs for local people.”
Applications continue to be welcomed by Derby City Council. To find out more visit: www.derby.gov.uk/degf. Alternatively call 01332 641628 or email degf@derby.gov.uk
