Several Sandwell SMEs are celebrating after successfully tendering for a cluster of multi-million pound construction contracts.

Successful local businesses include:

• ïTipton-based civil engineering firm Doocey Group
• ïTividale metal bending and steel roof curving firm Barnshaws
• ïWednesbury scaffolding specialists UK Access Solutions
• ïWest Bromwich-based APiC UK which designs, fabricates and installs aluminum curtain walling, windows, doors and screens, roof glazing and structural glazing systems

APiC’s contract, worth over £1m, will see the company manufacturing and installing the impressive architectural facade of Sandwell’s flagship aquatics centre as well as new glazing for the refurbished Alexander Stadium in Perry Barr.

The company will be working closely with Wates Construction and Sandwell Council to provide opportunities for other local firms to supply materials, manufactured components, specialist products and sub-contract work.

Andy Stapleton, sales director of APiC UK, said, “We hope to create apprenticeships, training opportunities and jobs throughout the entire local supply chain.”

APiC are also hoping to win further contracts by adopting ‘lean’ manufacturing processes and exploring ‘circular economy’ principles to combat climate change, such as the reuse of beer cans, food tins, foil packaging and commercial waste as recyclable raw material.

“We’re delighted to be part of this new industry approach,” said Andy. “We’re working with partners to stay ahead of metallurgical developments and explore the significant opportunities that the circular economy presents.”

Andy and his team attribute the success of Sandwell firms to the pro-active support of the council. For example, the contract with the Sandwell Aquatics Centre has meant that two of APiC’s apprentices have moved on to permanent jobs, creating vacancies for two new apprentices. The Think Sandwell Employment and Skills Team are currently advertising these on the company’s behalf.

Andy said: “We’ve always found Sandwell Council’s support for manufacturers inspirational. Their efforts in encouraging supply groups at the pre-award stage of contracts have proved to be invaluable and a contributor to our past success”.

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