Newport-based steel supplier BRC Reinforcement Ltd (www.brc.ltd.uk) is creating 15 full-time jobs (and protecting 20) as a result of Welsh Government support, Economy Secretary Ken Skates has confirmed.

The £100,000 investment will also help BRC, which is part of the Celsa Group, to purchase new machinery and improve its factory layout so that productivity levels can be increased.

BRC has provided material for major projects such as Crossrail, Mersey Link and the Aberdeen bypass.

It is also the UK’s largest supplier of steel reinforcement and associated products for concrete, and it typically uses 98% recycled steel produced at its associated steel-making plant in Cardiff.

Additionally, it specialises in the manufacture of rebar carpet reinforcements and steel fabric mesh.

BRC will be investing over £1 million in this project and agreeing a new long-term lease with the landlord of its Corporation Road premises. It will also be acquiring bespoke shearing and bending equipment.

Mr Skates said: “Supporting the steel industry through a difficult and challenging time remains a key Welsh Government priority.

“I am pleased that our £100,000 investment is helping BRC to boost its productivity and to create and protect jobs at its Newport site.”

John Collins, managing director of BRC, said: “This investment will help to consolidate BRC’s position as the pre-eminent reinforcing fabricator in the UK, with an unrivalled capability of supplying all the major infrastructure projects.

“This is a demonstration of our close collaboration with the Welsh Government, and it has been made possible through the dedicated support of our workforce and the Community Union.”