KJN Automation receives Business Growth Grant of £19,000 for business operations

KJN Automation, based in Peckleton, secured a Business Growth Grant from the Business Gateway Growth Hub. The company becomes the first company to receive grant.  The grant helps the company to purchase two mitre saws capable of cutting carbon fibre and aluminium profiles.

The company supplies extruded aluminium profile and accessories to a wide range of industries including aerospace, motorsport, web and medical companies.

At present, KJN produces aluminium extrusion products which are used for modular systems, enclosures, desks etc. The new machine will help the company to manufacture lighter carbon fibre products. This will also help to increase productivity on their aluminium profiles and reduce delivery times.

Project consultant at KJN, Richard Andrews, said: "Like most businesses, we also had to cease works during Covid-19, but hopefully having these saws already in place will allow us to get back up and running sooner than most.

"We are also looking to move into larger premises in the near future, so being able to access this grant to support a small business like ours enabled us to expand much faster than we would normally.

"The increase in productivity and product portfolio also allowed us to employ locally again which supports the area."

Growth Hub manager, Jon Egley, said: "Businesses have needed more support than ever before during this difficult period. Our grants can help in the rebuilding and recovery of local SMEs, particularly those wanting to diversify into new areas. We also signpost businesses to all the other types of finance options they can access.

"It’s great to see KJN Automation back up and running and we’ll do everything we can to support them and other local businesses as we slowly come out of this pandemic."