Chesterfield business featured in Parliamentary Review on manufacturing
A Chesterfield manufacturer has been featured in this year’s Parliamentary Review on government policy involving the manufacturing and services sector.
United Cast Bar (UCB), Europe’s largest manufacturer of continuously cast iron bar, is one of only 16 companies from the metals, materials and fabrication sector to be included in the annual review.
With a foreword written by the Prime Minister Theresa May, the review has been sent to more than 500,000 leading business executives, policy makers and other relevant individuals. The Review also features messages from Lord Pickles and Lord Blunkett. For more information, please click here.
James Brand, Managing Director of United Cast Bar (UK) explained: “Being included in the Parliamentary Review is a great opportunity to put UCB’s name in front of both key politicians and industry representatives.”
“Brexit has created an uncertain climate for the sector in which UCB operates, but I am positive about the future. I personally see it as an opportunity for the company. We manufacture great products in this country and there has been a shift, both at home and abroad, towards buying British. UK demand for our product is increasing and I am confident that the final agreement with the EU will have few or no barriers for trade.”
Formed in February 1998, United Cast Bar is the result of the merger of three of Europe’s most prestigious continuous cast iron bar foundries and their associated stockist and service centres. The UK foundry and worldwide headquarters are based in Chesterfield and it is from here that approximately 90% of production is exported.
United Car Bar employs more than 100 people at its site on Spital Lane. James added: “Chesterfield has served us well in the 20 years we have been based in the town. There is an excellent supply of skilled employees in and around Chesterfield and we are keen to attract more through our apprenticeship programme and links with local schools.”
“If we are to develop our young people and retain their talent in the UK, schools must start bringing manufacturing and engineering careers to their attention; getting young people interested in the sector is a great first step.”
As part of the drive to recruit more young people to the company, United Cast Bar is a founding member of Destination Chesterfield’s Made in Chesterfield initiative and the supporting Chesterfield Manufacturers Forum.
The year-long campaign looks to inspire the next generation, with businesses, schools and training providers coming together to showcase the sector.
As part of the 2018 Made in Chesterfield campaign, UCB will be supporting the drive to get young people interested in careers in the manufacturing sector by hosting school visits to the foundry over the next 12 months.
To arrange a visit to United Cast Bar for your school as part of Made in Chesterfield, please contact Charlie Kay at Derbyshire Education Business Partnership on 01246 212535.
