An organisation that is run by and supports manufacturers and other businesses in Mid Wales and the borders has recruited 50 new members in the past year.

Newtown-based MWMG – the new name for Mid Wales Manufacturing Group –represents 170 businesses of all sizes and types across Powys, Ceredigion, Meirionnydd and the Shropshire border.

New members range from sole traders to large companies, such as meat company Dunbia in Llanybydder.

Due to the economic climate, MWMG is offering free membership to manufacturing companies until March next year.

MWMG membership provides direct access to expertise and saves valuable time and money for member companies. Other benefits include a hotline information service, introductions to other members who have faced similar business issues, updates on current legislation, lobbying on members' behalf, funding for training, productivity and benchmarking projects, workshops, factory visits, network events and special terms with commercial partners.

“We are delighted to be supporting more companies of all sizes across Mid Wales and the border,” said MWMG manager Ceri Stephens. “Whilst some companies are returning to membership, we are also welcoming many new members, which is very encouraging.

“Companies recognise that the current economic climate is challenging and are looking for support from MWMG in terms of sharing best practice and business experiences, networking opportunities and money saving services.

“We are seeing an increase in the number of grant enquiries for new machinery and process improvement, which shows that companies are more optimistic about business prospects.

“I would encourage any business that is not currently a member to get in touch to discover how we can help. There are opportunities to develop local supply chains and to access new markets by networking with other companies.

“We are also developing new partnerships, improving and enhancing existing relationships with the Welsh Assembly Government, local authorities and service providers and extending our services to members.”

Over the past year, MWMG staff have visited 108 companies, organised 20 events and arranged a factory visit by members to Pamargan Products in Newtown.

For information about membership or manufacturing issues contact MWMG's office on Tel: 01686 628778, email info@mwmg.org or visit www.mwmg.org