Stadco buys Telford site and promises 80 new jobs

Shrewsbury car parts manufacturer Stadco has today announced that the company has bought a new site for production in Telford, in a move which is set to create up to 80 jobs.

The company has acquired the 18-acre former Ogihara site in Hortonwood which has been vacant since 2009.

Stadco spokesman Marco Ferrari said: "The new plant further strengthens Stadco's platform for growth, with the company set to capitalise on the increase in manufacturing activity in the UK automotive sector.

"The acquisition will result in an additional 50 permanent jobs being created at the site with a further 30 required during the start-up phase."

He said the company had faced challenges during the economic downturn in 2008/9 but, following a major restructure, had emerged stronger and won key orders from major car manufacturers.

He said 183 jobs had been created across the group over the last year. Stadco is already a key supplier in the UK for Jaguar Land Rover.

The Telford site will initially incorporate two large mechanical stamping lines, a fully-equipped tool room and a further 24,000 sq m of manufacturing area for future expansion.

Stadco will start commissioning work this month, ramping up to full production by June.

Telford & Wrekin Council leader Andrew Eade: "This is fantastic news for the borough and is another indication of the confidence of the business community in Telford."