Sheffield-based MetLase (www.metlase.com) is celebrating a record-breaking year after securing a landmark contract with Boeing.

The company, which is a joint venture between Rolls-Royce and Unipart, has been appointed as the tooling and fixture partner for the aerospace manufacturer’s new Sheffield facility, in a deal that will initially increase its workforce by 15%.

It will use its 3-D design capabilities, high-precision laser-cutting technology and patented assembly and joining systems to create lightweight machining fixtures that will precisely hold 11 different castings used in the production of actuation-system components for Boeing 737, 767 and 777 passenger aircraft.

MetLase specialises in the manufacture of world-class tooling, plus intelligent fixturing and components, bringing lead times of months down to weeks or even days.

The Boeing contract is the latest in a line of new-business wins that include strategic partnerships with ‘blue chip’ companies in sectors such as automotive, aerospace and energy — marking a 70% annual increase in sales for the firm.

Steve Dunn, MetLase’s managing director, said: “The long-term agreement with Boeing marks a new chapter for our business; it will enable us to become an integral part of Boeing’s plans to develop intelligent and connected fixturing and tooling solutions.

"Our unique approach and technology will see us produce optimised fixtures that are lighter than traditional alternatives, can be produced in weeks as opposed to months and — through our design iteration service — can be continually improved to deliver the best possible performance.

“This contract is an ideal way to celebrate our third birthday. It is also excellent news for the region, with two other local companies — Maher Ltd and Nikken – also being awarded contracts.”