On October 16, 2024, Kiernan Structural Steel Ltd, a company known for its high-quality steel products, announced an exciting expansion of its operations in Llandrindod Wells, Wales. The company is investing £1.4 million into upgrading its headquarters, a move that has garnered support from the Welsh Government. This initiative aims to bolster the company’s capacity to meet changing market demands and seize growth opportunities in various sectors.
The significant investment will create 39 new jobs, including five apprenticeships, while safeguarding an additional 24 positions within the company. The Welsh Government is contributing £140,000 to this project through its Economy Futures Fund, which is designed to assist businesses in expanding their operations and enhancing the Welsh economy. Kiernan Structural Steel currently supplies products across multiple sectors, including construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.
One of the key features of this investment is the addition of in-house capabilities for heat-resistant spray painting. Previously, this work was subcontracted to facilities in Scunthorpe and Southampton, but the new upgrade will allow Kiernan to perform this specialized service on-site. This change not only reduces transportation costs and carbon emissions but also enhances efficiency in their production processes.
Frank and Dolores Kiernan, the directors of Kiernan Structural Steel, expressed their enthusiasm about the expansion. They stated, “Expanding our operations in Llandrindod Wells reflects our commitment to strengthening our capacity and supporting the Welsh economy.” They emphasized that this investment would help the company maintain its reputation for delivering high-quality steel products while minimizing costs and environmental impacts.
The Welsh Government has been a strong advocate for supporting local businesses that prioritize growth and sustainability. Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, noted that Kiernan Structural Steel has invested over £5 million in its Welsh operations since 2021. She highlighted the importance of this latest investment in creating and safeguarding well-paid jobs, stating, “We will always support businesses in Wales which are committed to growth, fair work, employee health and skills, and decarbonisation.”
With this expansion, Kiernan Structural Steel is poised to not only enhance its operational capabilities but also contribute to the economic development of Wales. The company’s focus on reducing its carbon footprint aligns with broader initiatives in the industry aimed at promoting sustainability. By bringing more operations in-house, Kiernan aims to improve efficiency while providing valuable job training opportunities for local talent.
