Warwickshire councillor visits growing aerospace business

A Warwickshire councillor who spearheads the local authority’s support of the business community has visited an aerospace supplier to see first-hand its continued growth.

Cllr Martin Watson was appointed Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place last July to help the county’s business community.

He has visited ASG Arrowsmith Engineering on the Bayton Road Industrial Estate in Exhall which had 14 per cent growth last year to meet Managing Director Jason Aldridge, to find out more about the business which manufactures bespoke precision components for customers across the world.

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The 56-year-old business has added to its state-of-the-art machinery by investing in an automated manufacturing machine and a precision-driven lathe to enhance its five-axis machining centre and automatic pallet changer.

ASG Arrowsmith Engineering has also appointed an apprentice and two interns to add to its 60-strong workforce.

Arrowsmith is also a key member of the 11-member company Coventry & Warwickshire Aerospace Forum (CWAF), which facilitates collaboration between the local SME aerospace supply chain. The aerospace industry is a key part of the local future mobility supply chain, and includes large OEMs like Meggitt and Rolls-Royce Aerospace, and together employs several thousand people across the city and county.

Cllr Watson said it had been a really interesting and informative visit and he hopes to organise more fact-finding trips.

“I enjoy getting out and about the county to meet a wide range of businesses in different sectors and of different sizes,” he said.

“There is a great deal of enterprising businesses who are innovators in their sector which is highlighted by Arrowsmith Engineering, who are leaders in the aerospace supply chain and is a strategic supplier to the likes of Rolls-Royce and Airbus.

“It was fascinating to see their cutting-edge machines in action and find out more about a business which is continually investing in its growth, technology and skills.

“Apprenticeships are really important since they provide training for young people looking to pursue a career in engineering and manufacturing, as well as improving their day-to-day learning and skills which will prove crucial in the short and long-term.”

Jason Aldridge, of ASG Arrowsmith Engineering, said the aerospace supply chain was buoyant after bouncing back from the pandemic.

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He said: “It was great to meet Cllr Watson and tell him about our future plans for the business, as well as our investments in our workforce and machinery.

“The new machinery means we can deliver rapid, high-precision aerospace parts which has revolutionised the way we work, and has led to securing major contracts for a renowned global aero-engine manufacturer.

“It underlines our commitment to investing in our staff as well because it is vital that we train our workforce to the highest levels for their personal development, and to contribute to the future success of our business and the wider industry.”