A Sandwell pipe-forming manufacturer has received a £10,500 investment boost to help finance new machinery and capitalise on emerging market development opportunities.

West Bromwich-based Formbend Limited (link) specialises in the manufacture of CNC tube manipulation, forming, pipe bending, brazing, robotic MIG welding and assembly of complex parts. The new acquisition is a CNC Parker Parflange 1050 machine.

Founded in 1966, Formbend has built on its strong market position by working with Sandwell Council to access funding through the Aim for Gold programme.

Think Sandwell‘s Business Growth Team delivers Aim for Gold – a programme which provides support to SMEs by helping them identify areas for business growth.

At the moment the scheme can help SMEs to diversify and pivot their business focus in order to survive and thrive during the post-COVID-19 economic climate.

Staying at the forefront of tube manipulation and pipe forming has always been a key strategy for Formbend’s success. The Aim for Gold funding has enabled it to invest in a cutting-edge CNC flange-forming machine to carry out work previously done in China.

The new production facility will enhance the firm’s product offering to customers looking to source and re-shore critical components in key target markets.

The new machinery has been installed very recently, also creating a new position for a skilled full-time setter / CNC machine operator.Mark Hateley, managing director of Formbend said: “We have welcomed the grant support to help us invest in a new CNC machine, which alongside further lean manufacturing techniques, will consolidate our position in a competitive market.

“I would certainly encourage any other businesses to speak to the council to learn about the support that is available through the Aim for Gold programme.”