Walsall foundry group Chamberlin sees profits soar

Walsall-based foundry group Chamberlin has recorded its best financial position in in five years, bosses said today.

Chamberlin, which bases its foundry operation in Chuckery Road, said it had seen increasing demand, won new business and improved its operations.

It had also seen a strong first year contribution from the former Jebron business, in Wednesbury, which Chamberlin has integrated into its Exidor factory in Cannock, saving 25 jobs.

The group, which employs around 450 people, said profit predictions are around £1.6 million.

In a statement to the City, Chamberlin said: "The results show the benefits of improving demand from existing customers, new business wins and operational improvements all of which are expected to continue in the coming year."

The company will reveal its full year figures for the 12 months to the end of March on May 22.

Meanwhile, Staffordshire digger giant JCB has recorded the best ever sales and profit figures in its 66-year history. An extra 17,500 machine sales helped the company along to a 37 per cent surge in annual turnover to £2.75 billion last year.

By Simon Penfold