Ilkeston-based Dales Fabrications (
www.dales-eaves.co.uk), which makes aluminium products for the building industry, has installed a polyester powder coating plant that can apply attractive hard-wearing finishes to its products.
Industry specialists and Erewash MP Maggie Throup were among the guests who attended the unveiling at the end of November.
Managing director Karl Prosser said that the new equipment — costing £170,000 — is a massive upgrade from the limited capacity that the company had previously.
The company received a grant of £42,500 from a Government fund managed by the University of Derby, because it is creating two jobs — with another two expected to follow in the next couple of years.
The university will also offer apprenticeships, knowledge exchange, research and product testing as part of a continuing relationship.
Dales Fabrications makes bespoke aluminium products — including fascias, soffits and rainwater systems — that enhance the appearance of a wide variety of buildings.
Its order book is at an all-time high going into 2019, with work approaching £1.5 million in value.