UKSE has taken an equity stake in a Cardiff firm poised to double its output.

Cardiff Canning has installed a second production line allowing it to make 35 million cans a year for the UK Ready to Drink (RTD) market, helping drinks brands develop and grow their products.

UKSE, a subsidiary of Tata Steel, is working closely with the ambitious company to fulfil the business plan which forecasts turnover rising by 50% in 2026. In three years , the prediction is that the workforce will increase by 7 to 30 with an emphasis on training and upskilling in a more automated workspace.

To accommodate the £400,000 new canning line, the firm has moved into the adjacent unit at Freemans Park doubling its footprint, gaining valuable storage space and improving efficiency.

The family business is optimistic about the future. “We are very pleased to be working with UKSE in what we are sure will be a long and fruitful relationship,” said Paul Miller, Managing Director.

Cardiff Canning helps drinks brands, large and small, develop and manufacture through canning, blending, product development and storage. “Choosing the right manufacturer is the most important decision a drinks company can make. We have all the facilities and knowledge to help them bring their ideas to market, and we pride ourselves on our hands on approach putting customer relations first,” he said.

UKSE Area Manager in Wales Michelle Noble said she was delighted to be working with Cardiff Canning. “The firm has a clear focus and strong ethos with quality and customer relationships at its heart.

“More space and increased automation will enable the firm to move to the next level and draw in new customers. The potential for growth is considerable and our new partnership comes at a crucial stage and I am confident UKSE, with our experience in equity investment, can play a vital role.”

UKSE, which has just won the Insider Deal of the Year up to £5million for Wales, provides equity investments up to £1 million for Welsh firms aiming to create lasting, quality jobs. “Many businesses in Wales would benefit from a capital injection in the form of equity from a flexible and patient partner, who is there to support rather than control the business. We back management teams to deliver their own business plans and are very happy to discuss how we can support them at any time,” added Michelle.

Michelle is leading UKSE in Wales as the organisation marks 50 years.

In that time it has supported some 83,000 jobs in the UK with loans, equity investments and grants, and combinations of these. UKSE owns and runs Cardiff Bay Business Centre and Ebbw Vale Innovation Centre, home to a range of firms.