Family-run precision engineering business QCD Precision has announced a major expansion following support from the Northumberland Small Business Service, including investment in new machinery and relocation to a significantly larger facility in Ashington.

QCD which stands for Quality, Cost and Delivery was initially launched following the sale of a previous engineering company to an American oil and gas firm. What began as a small project quickly developed into a growing manufacturing business focused on providing a more responsive and customer-focused machining service.

Originally established in 2017 and beginning trading in 2018, QCD Precision, previously based in Blyth, says the move marks a major milestone in its growth while reinforcing its long-term commitment to Northumberland’s manufacturing sector.

The Northumberland Small Business Service (NSBS) is funded by the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority’s through its Rural Growth Programme and Integrated Settlement, with Northumberland County Council acting as the Lead Delivery Partner, supported by Durham County Council, Gateshead Council, Northumberland National Park Authority, Food and Drink North East Limited, and North East Enterprise Agency.

Greg Stephenson, Commercial Manager at QCD Precision said: “We are very proud to be a Northumberland business and to be part of the region’s strong manufacturing and engineering base.

"The move to Ashington is a major step forward for us. It gives us the space and capacity to continue growing while remaining firmly rooted in Northumberland.

"For us, it was important that we were not moving away from the area. We are investing further into Northumberland and building the next stage of the business here.”

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet member for Economy and Regeneration at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are excited to see the future for QCD Precision and the positive impact the company has in the county.

"The new Northumberland Small Business Service is here to support all businesses of all sizes and sectors in Northumberland."

As the company continued to expand, its previous premises became increasingly restrictive. With support from the Northumberland Small Business Service, QCD Precision has now been able to accelerate plans to relocate and invest in additional machinery to increase capacity.

Greg added: “The support has helped us move forward with confidence on what is a significant investment for a small business."

The investment in QCD has already led to the creation of two new jobs, with further employment growth expected as the company increases production capacity and takes on larger projects.

Greg praised the practical nature of the support provided through the programme and encouraged other small businesses to engage with the service.

He added: “A lot of small businesses are focused on day-to-day pressures, and it can be difficult to step back and properly plan for growth.

"Having access to support, advice and potential funding can make a real difference. The support from the Northumberland Small Business Service has come at a really important time for QCD Precision.”

NSBS also offers assistance to businesses across Northumberland. The experienced team and its range of experts work directly with businesses and individuals to help them start, grow, diversify, and sustain their ventures through workshops, 1-2-1 support and networking events across the county. The programme also has a specific support functionality for Food & Drink and Farming businesses in Northumberland.

Looking ahead, QCD Precision says its focus remains on continued growth, investment and creating more skilled jobs within the region.

Greg said: “We are ambitious, but the focus is still the same: quality work, reliable service and continued investment in Northumberland.

"We want to continue supporting UK manufacturing and regional supply chains while building QCD Precision into an even stronger manufacturing business for the future.”