Newark-based steel fabricator Blagg & Johnson Ltd (www.blaggs.co.uk) has invested in two new automated machines that reduce energy usage, achieve faster processing speeds and increase processing capability, thanks to £1.2 million of funding from HSBC UK.

The company (www.blaggs.co.uk) has invested in a new laser cutting machine and a press brake that will help to increase its capacity by at least 30% (and are 50% more energy-efficient).

The laser cutting machine can cut more accurate shapes, and the press brake can press bigger sheets of metal more quickly than the company’s older models.

Blagg & Johnson is a leading supplier of pressed metal sections and fabrications to the agricultural, building and vehicle industries. It estimates that these efficiencies will double its turnover over the next five years.

Managing director Graham Hodges said: “The investment in these two machines makes us more competitive; we can now offer additional services for customers, as well as faster processing times.

“Thanks to the support of HSBC UK relationship manager Ian Green, we are well on our way to meeting our five-year growth plan, as well as increasing our turnover by 100%.”