Tadweld, a welding and fabrication company based in Tadcaster, has been awarded a £20k grant through the Made Smarter programme. This funding will enable Tadweld to enhance its digital capabilities and foster innovation within the business.
Established in 1983, Tadweld initially served the agricultural and quarry industries before expanding to provide welding and sheet metal work for local breweries. Today, the company has grown to become a leading player in the field with a highly skilled team. Tadweld specializes in designing, developing, creating, and installing steelwork solutions for blue-chip companies across the UK and Europe.
Recognizing the need to innovate and evolve, Tadweld sought support from the Made Smarter scheme to explore how digital tools could enhance its operations and contribute to further growth. The programme provided the company with a range of support, guidance, and solutions, including personal engagement from Heidi Green of North Yorkshire council and extensive support from Mike Pennington of the York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub.
Tadweld’s Managing Director, Chris Houston, expressed the company’s excitement about the introduction of laser welding technology, which represents a significant advancement for Tadweld. This pioneering technology offers numerous advantages over traditional methods, particularly in terms of weld quality and cleanliness. These aspects are crucial in the high-tech sectors Tadweld serves, such as food and drink, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Houston anticipates that this technology will give Tadweld a competitive edge, enabling them to provide superior products and services.
Alongside technical advancements, Tadweld has heavily invested in its employees. Working closely with Calderdale College and leadership specialists, Pro-Development (UK) Limited, the company has conducted management training courses and an Employee Engagement Survey. This initiative has not only up-skilled managers but also provided valuable feedback from the entire workforce. As a result of the survey, Tadweld has already implemented new facilities, equipment, and even hosted a staff BBQ. The company is now exploring further training opportunities through the York & North Yorkshire LEP Skills Bootcamps and the Made Smarter programme for Digital Transformation and Supervisor skills.
Tadweld has set a target to have the laser welding equipment in place by January 2024. Firmly recognizing the importance of training and maximizing the value of the new technology, the company is eager to explore its capabilities. Additionally, Tadweld is considering additional digital investments in systems and equipment to remain at the forefront of innovation in their industry.
Mike Pennington, who provided extensive support to Tadweld through the Made Smarter programme, expressed his pride in assisting the company on its journey. He commended Tadweld’s commitment to embracing digital technologies and delivering top-quality solutions to their clients. Pennington is proud to have played a part in their success and is excited about the positive impact this support will have on their future endeavors.
Tadweld’s commitment to supporting innovation and growth is a testament to their dedication to delivering high-quality steelwork solutions to their clients. This journey exemplifies the opportunities that digital transformation can unlock for businesses, ultimately strengthening the local economy and reinforcing Tadcaster’s position as a hub of industrial excellence.
