Welsh Government backs manufacturing on visit to Mid Wales employer NIDEC Drives

Daniel Bevan - Editor

Image credit: NIDEC Drives

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The Welsh Government has reiterated its support for the manufacturing sector during a visit to one of Mid Wales’ largest private sector employers, NIDEC Drives.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans MS visited the Newtown-based company to highlight the strength and innovation of Welsh manufacturing and the sector’s importance to the regional and national economy.

Formerly known as Control Techniques, NIDEC Drives was founded in 1973 and has grown from a small start-up into an international business designing and manufacturing advanced electric motor control technology.

The company now has a turnover of around £125m and has been a cornerstone of the Mid Wales economy for more than five decades.

The Welsh Government has supported the business over many years, including funding in 2021 that helped transfer production from China to its Newtown base.

This year also marks 30 years since the company began operating at its Y Gro site, which houses its global research and development centre.

During the visit, Rebecca Evans said: “NIDEC Drives is vital to the Mid Wales community, not just as a major employer providing skilled jobs, but as a company that invests in local people through apprenticeships and training.

“Its long-standing presence in Newtown and commitment to sustainability, fair work and the community makes it a cornerstone of both economic and social wellbeing in the region.

“NIDEC Drives’ ambitions for the future align with our vision to future-proof existing manufacturing capability, take advantage of future opportunities, and respond to long-term challenges.

“Wales has a strong industrial heritage and harnessing the power of decarbonisation, digitalisation and skills development will be crucial if we are to deliver more jobs, innovation, and resilience for Welsh manufacturing.

“We have supported approximately 46,000 jobs since the start of this Senedd term through our business support programmes, and we will continue to make Wales a place where good jobs, strong businesses, and thriving communities are the foundation of a stronger, fairer, and greener economy.”

Anthony Pickering, President of Motion Platform for NIDEC Drives, said: “We are immensely proud of our long-standing roots in Mid Wales and of the significant contribution our Newtown site makes to the regional economy.

“This significant investment demonstrates Nidec’s commitment to sustaining high-quality manufacturing in Mid Wales for decades to come.

“We strongly believe in championing ‘Wales for Wales’ and, recognising our vital role in the Mid Wales economy, we are proud to advocate for Welsh industry.

“Nidec Drives remains firmly rooted in Newtown, Powys, and will continue to invest in the people in and around the local area.”