Middle East exports help create 20 new jobs

Mechatherm International in Kingswinford was supported by the Department for International Trade in winning the work

It specialises in the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of bespoke furnaces used to produce aluminium.

The new contract is to supply and maintain a series of furnaces with one of the largest aluminium producers in the Middle East. Mechatherm has had to increase the size of its workforce from 50 to 70 to meet the increased demand and expects revenue to rise above £20 million in 2019 as a result.

Mechatherm, which is based at Hampshire House, High Street, has a customer base of blue chip companies and sells to more than 50 countries globally, with exports accounting for around 85 per cent of its turnover. It also intends to open its first office in Dubai later in 2018 to bolster its presence in the Middle East.

Mechatherm’s ongoing success overseas is being celebrated by the DIT’s Exporting is Great campaign. The campaign showcases more than 30 businesses from a range of sectors and regions to inspire and support businesses up and down the country to export.

Andrew Riley, chairman of Mechatherm International, said: “Exporting is key to our business and some of our most valuable contracts are with overseas customers. Before working with the DIT, we encountered some difficulties with logistics. We were unsure who to trade with and how to do so securely. The DIT helped us to overcome this by introducing us to a network of trusted partners meaning that we could export confidently and profitably.

“I’d advise any company thinking about exporting to talk to the DIT first. Its team of international trade advisers can help to analyse and combat any potential risk involved. If we can benefit from the global demand for British made products, so can other local businesses.”

Ian Harrison, director of exports for the Midlands at the Department for International Trade, said: “The success of Mechatherm is largely driven by exports. The business has secured some significant contracts abroad recently, and it’s fantastic to see the positive benefits locally, with new jobs being created right here in Dudley.

“Britain has a global reputation for excellence and demand for our products and services is constantly growing. The DIT has 31 international trade advisers located across the West Midlands who are dedicated to supporting local companies to tap into this growing demand.”