Jobs boost for Welshpool

 

The company, which provides parts to the automotive industry and is expanding into the aircraft sector, has revealed plans to double its workforce after securing a £56m export deal in Thailand, Brazil and Indonesia.

 

It forecasts that turnover will rise by 40% while exports are set to rise from 60% to 90%. The company makes trim products for car interiors ranging from loadspace covers, treadplates to sunblinds.

 

“Our expansion simply would not have happened without the support and funding we received which enabled us to test and validate new designs and products," said Gary Searle, Managing Director, referring to the support that it has received from the Welsh Government's business innovation programme.

 

"It enabled us to expand our product range, increase exports and grow the business which includes plans to create 50 new jobs."

 

Cobra UK has branched out into the aerospace industry, and is developing a prototype lightweight aircraft seat.

 

News of the jobs has been warmly received and Montgomeryshire AM, Russell George, said: “This announcement is excellent news, both for Welshpool and for the region. Cobra UK specialise in creating parts for some of the most prestigious car companies in the world.

 

“With export markets in South East Asia and South America expanding and with the company diversifying its product range, it can only go from strength to strength. I do welcome the fact that the company benefitted from Welsh Government investment and it’s vital it continues to do all it can to ensure the private sector develops in Wales outside of the city hubs.

 

“There are indigenous companies ready to capture global markets if given the right support. The Welsh Government must do all it can to develop these companies and ensure that the world knows Wales is open for business.”