Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, recently visited local businesses Moog at the i54 business park, near Bilbrook.
He was taken on a tour of the factory, where more than 400 employees are involved in the development and manufacture of flight control actuation systems. Gavin helped facilitate the move from Moog’s previous premises on Wobaston Road, in 2012, by securing funding for the installation of gas and electricity at the business park.
Gavin also had the opportunity on the day to meet representatives from Swedish aerospace and defence company Saab Group. Moog supplies gear boxes for the business’ Gripen aircraft, which receives a third of its components from UK manufacturers.
During his visit, Gavin was informed that the UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) is supporting Saab in selling its Gripen aircraft to export countries across the world.
The aircraft has met with particular success in Brazil. The original order for the aircraft was secured after the Prime Minister met with the Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff during a September 2012 visit to boost trade links.
As a direct result of further orders and its own aggressive expansion strategy, Moog has been able to bring in six new apprentices on top of the three already working for the company.
Gavin said: “This is an incredible local success story. Thanks to continuing investment and support, businesses are currently going from strength to strength in South Staffordshire. This means a growth in the number of jobs available to local residents and leads to increased prosperity for the entire area.
“I will continue to fight to ensure that local companies receive the investment they deserve and that local people have access to the training and opportunities that they need to succeed.”