Business move creates 50 new jobs in Walsall

Up to 50 new jobs are being created by a family-run Walsall manufacturing company as it moves to new premises on an historic site in the town.

Metafin's move to the historic Victor Works site will see its workforce increase by almost 50 per cent over the next three years.

The company, which provides electro-painting and a powder-coating service, mostly to the motor industry, has outgrown its existing Green Lane site. Its decision to move and expand now has been backed by funding from Barclays.

This is coming from the corporate banking arm of the bank, although details of the finance package are not being revealed.

Metain chief executive David Parker said today: "We had previously considered moving to bigger premises pre-recession but with the pressures facing the motor industry at that time and in consultation with our bank, we took the decision to put the move on hold until the economic climate improved.

"We were very keen to maintain our Walsall ties and stay within the area for our workforce and to protect the heritage of the business.

"This new site in Northcote Street will provide the company with the space it needs to accommodate future growth and to continue to develop our workforce.

"We expect to start operations in the new premises by the end of 2012."

The Northcote Street site will provide an 86,000 sq ft home for Metafin, enabling it recruit another 50 staff over the next three years.

The firm employs 120 staff and already operates a 24-hour-a-day operation.

Metafin Group Holdings was founded by David Bundy in 1973. He was succeeded by son Paul Bundy and his wife Debra.

After Mr Bundy's death in 2002, his wife became chairman and continues to oversee running of the business. Son Paul Bundy is studying and working within the business.