Factory expansion creates 80 jobs

The firm intends to expand its operations at the Ebbw Vale site

Eighty jobs are expected to be created at a car parts factory in Ebbw Vale under a £12m expansion.

Japanese company Takao intends to double the size of its plant on the Rassau Industrial Estate in the town.

The firm said it had secured substantial future business from a number of Japanese car manufacturers to enable it to expand.

The announcement came weeks after another company in the town said it was could close with 215 job losses.

Takao's expansion plans have been supported by the Welsh Assembly Government, and Economy Minister Brian Gibbons called them "excellent news for the Heads of the Valleys".

He said: "The automotive industry is a key sector in Wales generating more than £3bn annually and providing high quality jobs.

"This expansion by Takao, following so quickly after their initial investment, is a clear vote of confidence in Wales as a key location for business.

"It will create a substantial number of new jobs and bring added value to the local economy as Takao has a policy of sourcing goods and services locally whenever possible."

Takao Wales Division (TWD) acquired the former Yajima factory in Ebbw Vale in 2006 and currently employs 62 people on site.

Commercial director Nick Thomas said: "We have been able to attract first-class staff with the relevant skills needed to ensure we can meet the quality standards expected by our customers and look forward to this next phase of our expansion in Wales."