Engineering firm's growth to create 40 new jobs by end of 2016

Dudley business Petford Tools, which designs and manufacturers tools for some of the biggest names in the automotive sector, has purchased a new 3,000 square metre premises in Brierley Hill.

The business was founded in 1970 by chairman Mick Parr, who operated from a single unit in Brierley Hill. Today the business employs 140 staff and has become one of the country's leading independent toolmakers and injection moulders.

Managing director Mel Sinar said the new site would help it meet an increase in orders: "We have always prided ourselves on providing a toolmaking and moulding service of the highest standard," he said. "This ethos has stood us in good stead over the years and means we see clients coming back time and time again.

"Like any forward thinking business, we have diversified into new markets and also offer a moulding service."

Dudley South MP Chris Kelly has visited the company in Peartree Lane to discuss its expansion.

"He said the firm had a lot to be pleased about.

"Petford Tools are an excellent example of a true manufacturing business that has not only continued with its core product offering, but also identified new markets to ensure they are well placed to support the on-going development of the automotive sector now and in the future," he said.

And he added: "I am very proud of the fact that Petford Tools is based within my constituency from where they are exporting increasing volumes to Europe and further afield.

"I look forward to watching the future success of the business and, as I said at Prime Minister's Questions recently, I am very keen to showcased to the Prime Minister of the best of Black Country engineering in action at Petford Tools on his next visit to the area," said Mr Kelly.

Petford Tools was given help to buy its new premises thanks to financial support from Barclays.

Relationship director at Barclays, Mike Corcoran, said: "Petford Tools has continued to develop its product offering, which has paid dividends in terms of winning new contracts. The new premises will allow the company to put in to place the next stage of their expansion strategy."