A South Lanarkshire aerospace company has secured a six-figure long-term agreement with air engineering giant Rolls Royce.
Martin Aerospace, which manufactures precision parts for aeroplanes, helicopters and spacecraft, has invested in new technology and undertaken an expansion programme that has led to a 22 per cent increase in its workforce, with 80 staff including apprentices now in place.
The Lanark-based business struck a new three-year agreement with Rolls Royce after UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE) helped it to acquire new plant equipment.
UKSE, a Tata Steel subsidiary which is furthering economic prosperity in traditional steel producing areas, has provided long-term financial support to Martin Aerospace, including £140,000 in the past year for investment in equipment such as five axis CNC (computer numerical control) machines.
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Martin Aerospace was founded 25 years ago and supplies thousands of different quality-critical machined components, which include engine fastenings, crankshafts and complex assemblies to the aerospace market.
Lorna Gourlay, finance director at Martin Aerospace, above, left, said: "We are delighted to enter into a new LTA (long-term agreement) with Rolls Royce.
"We have a long-standing relationship as a supplier to Rolls Royce and believe the new LTA recognises the energy and commitment we provide to our customers and aligns well with our business strategy of increasing turnover to £20 million within the next five years.
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"Without the continued help from UKSE, we would have been unable to support the rapid expansion; having its backing has been paramount to our growth."
Anne Clyde, regional manager at UKSE, who is pictured above, right, said: "Martin Aerospace is a truly innovative business doing some incredible things.
"We are proud to be a part of its journey and excited to see what it delivers in the coming years."
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