Group Rhodes, the Wakefield-based machine manufacturer, has increased its export sales by 121% and has created 30 new jobs over the past 12 months with the help of UKTI.
UK Trade & Investment Yorkshire and Humber (UKTI Y&H) announced the increase in sales yesterday. The figures were from the period January to March 2011. During the year, the company was able to increase staff levels by 30 to 220.
The manufacturer produces bespoke machinery and complete turnkey solutions, but also has a range of over 50 basic ranges of machines. Group Rhodes makes machinery for a range of sectors, including oil and gas, heavy ceramics and aerospace. Its latest successes include securing a contract worth £1.85m in China and a £1.7m order for the Indian aluminium processing industry.
Philip Kelly, head of international trade at UKTI Y&H, said: “There is huge potential for Yorkshire companies in a wide range of sectors to take advantage of the growth in both emerging and traditional economies.”
Mark Ridgway, the company’s managing director said: “As an SME, working with UKTI educates you in international trends in given market sectors and they helped us to develop and review our market strategy, appoint agents and understand the way that government support is structured.”
“There is no doubt that this support has been crucial in helping us secure $US10 in orders in China since 2005,” he added.
George Archer
