Reidsteel Information Feed

Airport show is great success

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 09:35:55 GMT

We placed our terminals and hangars in the spotlight at one of the leading international airport conferences and trade shows in London.

Our business development managers Chris Evans and Luke Cleaver-Harris represented the company at PTE World (Passenger Terminal Expo) at the Excel centre in Docklands.

They made many new contacts and held valuable conversations about the industry and how our design, fabrication and construction expertise for steel framed terminals fits into the picture.

Chris and Luke were based on the prominent and very busy British Aviation Group stand at the event where they meet fellow delegates from across the UK, Europe and the World.

They also rubbed shoulders with fellow members of the BAG, including chair Tim Walder.

More than 10,000 delegates from airports, airlines, aviation authorities, governments and related businesses attended the event.

If you missed Chris and Luke at the show or wish to follow up conversations, please don’t hesitate to contact them on +1202 483333 or email chrisevans@reidsteel.co.uk and lukecleaver-harris@reidsteel.co.uk .

REIDsteel set to showcase careers

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 14:56:36 GMT

We‘re looking forward to the Careers and Apprenticeship Show at the Bournemouth International Centre on Thursday March 12.

Our team will be on stand D2 to talk about the rich variety of exciting roles available at REIDsteel, from our offices and workshops at our headquarters in Christchurch to construction sites across the UK and world.

The free-to-attend event, organised by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council , is aimed at young people aged 15 to 19 considering their future careers.

As well as students from schools across the area, it is open to teachers, parents and careers. We will be among about 100 exhibitors at the show.

As a company we are committed to investing in the development of trainees, apprentices, and graduates across the business. We have a ‘one team’ ethos which values every employee individually.

Last year’s show was fully booked and we had a busy event talking to lots of fantastic young people about opportunities at our company and careers generally.

The show will be open to students and schools based in Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole from 9am to 3pm.

The general public – parents, carers and young people – can attend from 4pm to 7pm.

Book online at https://www.careersandapprenticeshipshow.co.uk/

We’re lifting off at PTE World

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:44:14 GMT

Our award-winning aircraft hangars and airport terminal buildings will be in the spotlight at PTE World in March.

Chris Evans and Luke Cleaver-Harris from our business development team will be on our stand with the British Aviation Group in Hall N8-N23 on Booth D-190 .

PTE World 2026 (Passenger Terminal Expo & Conference) is being held from March 17 to 19 at Excel London.

The world-leading event will connect more than 11,000 delegates from airports, airlines, aviation authorities, governments and related businesses from across the globe.

Chris and Luke will be on hand to talk about our structural steel engineering, design, fabrication and installation expertise.

Our complete solutions include:

Primary and secondary steelwork
Mezzanines, decking and staircases
Steel balustrades and handrailing
Wall cladding including translucents, screens, louvres, flashings and trims
Roof cladding including translucents, guttering and rain pipes
In-house glazing design and fabrication
Doors, including personnel, hangar, roller shutter, glazed sliding, revolving, up and over and steel fire rated
Hostile vehicle mitigation barriers

We’ve built terminals and hangars across the world in 107 years of trading , with exports to more than 140 countries to date.

Recent https://www.reidsteel.com/steel-buildings/kumasi-airport-terminal projects have included major airport terminals in Africa, such as Kumasi Airport Terminal in Ghana.

Chris and Luke are looking forward to meeting with aviation contacts new and old during the event.

Please call in at our stand – in Hall N8-N23 on Booth D-190 – or get in touch to arrange a meeting at the show

New call to protect UK’s steel blast furnaces

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:13:40 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has called on the government to safeguard blast furnaces at British Steel in any talks about its future.

Simon, who was made OBE in the New Year’s Honours for services to steel manufacturing and SMEs, warned that the UK must possess the capability to make virgin steel from iron ore.

Along with a small group of business leaders in the steel industry, Simon has written to the Secretary of State for Business and leaders of other political parties calling for a meeting to discuss threats to the industry.

His comments come after PM Keir Starmer and Business Secretary Peter Kyle failed to secure an agreement for the future of British Steel on a recent trip to China and amid interest in the company from investor Michael Flacks.

The Manchester-born businessman is preparing a bid for British Steel through his Miami-based Flacks Group and will combine it with the Ilva steelworks in Italy, according to the Financial Times.

Simon said: “Now is not the right time to be looking for private investment.

“British Steel needs to be taken into public ownership, reinvested in and brought up to date before consideration of some level of privatisation involving a British company is considered.

“This must include continued use and eventual replacement of the company’s two blast furnaces along with construction of two new Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) and carbon capture capability.

“If we lose our blast furnace capability we will be one hundred per cent reliant on imports of foreign virgin steel and foreign EAF steel, with a devastating impact on critical infrastructure, rail and defence sectors.

“While the government dithers, the clock is ticking.”

The first anniversary of the government’s takeover of British Steel in April 2025 is fast approaching.

Blast furnaces at British Steel in Scunthorpe will reach the end of their working life within the next five to 10 years and there is currently no large scale producer of EAF steel in the UK.

The government is running British Steel at a cost to the taxpayer but Chinese firm Jingye remains the legal owner.

Simon added: “The government missed a golden opportunity in China to take British Steel under full public ownership.

“Its dismal failure is symptomatic of the apathy which has left the company, its employees, contractors, supply chain and local community in limbo for nearly a year.”

Simon also hit out at the government for policies which have undermined the steelmaking giant.

Contract specifications for low carbon levels in many UK infrastructure projects mean that British Steel products are often ruled out in favour of EAF steel – such as for the Net Zero Teesside (NZT) gas-powered electricity plant in the North East.

China’s Modern Heavy Industries was given the contract by NZT for part of the steel needed to build the facility because it can supply so called ‘green steel’ produced in electric arc furnaces (EAF) using scrap steel.

The steel could have been made in British Steel’s own blast furnaces and rolled five minutes down the road from the new development in Teesside.

Simon said: “There are glaring contradictions in government policy.

“On one hand, it has put measures in place to safeguard the future of British Steel at a cost of about £350m a year yet on the other hand its own policies are damaging the company’s ability to win business and survive.

“it is being excluded and denied access to very market upon which it depends. Why spend all of this money if British Steel is not able to sell into the market. The irony is incredible.”

Simon previously campaigned to save British Steel when its blast furnaces came under threat last March.

REIDsteel managing director demands British Steel deal on China trip

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 12:20:30 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has called on PM Keir Starmer to resolve the future of British Steel on his impending visit to China.

Simon, who was made OBE in the New Years Honours for services to steel manufacturing and SMEs, insisted that the government must seal a deal in Beijing to bring the company under full public ownership.

The government seized control of British Steel in April 2025 to stop its Chinese owners Jingye from closing the UK’s only two remaining blast furnaces.

Simon said: “There can be no prevarication or delay – the government must return with an agreement for full public ownership of British Steel.

“The blast furnaces at British Steel in Scunthorpe will reach the end of their working lifespan within the next five to 10 years, so there is no time to lose.

“Investment is required for two new blast furnaces which can make virgin steel from iron ore with carbon capture technology along with two new Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) which use scrap steel.

“But that can only happen if British Steel is taken into public ownership with a long-term vision and funding which can turn the company into a viable, profitable business providing a return for the taxpayer.

“Following which, private-public ownership can be considered with a model that forbids the company from ever again being sold to a foreign body.”

Simon added: “The British people have to ask themselves whether or not they want to retain steelmaking in the UK.

“If we lose our blast furnaces we will be one hundred per cent reliant on imports of foreign virgin steel and foreign EAF steel that suit our mills.

“EAFs are a viable investment but we need two of these and they need to be built on British Steel land and they must belong to British Steel.

“There are a multitude of uses for steel produced by EAFs but the fact remains that for our country to lose the capability to make virgin steel we will never again be able to make the highest grade steel possible.

“Currently there is only enough scrap metal globally to meet one third of the world demand for steel, so there is clearly a need for virgin steel.

“It would be an act of great national harm if we were to exclude ourselves as a maker of virgin steel for which there is worldwide demand which is currently fulfilled by some of the dirtiest producers on the planet.

“If we invest in blast furnaces with carbon capture technology we can be the greenest producer and the market leader of virgin steel production.

“It will remain critical for our country’s economy, skillset, infrastructure and nationally important sectors such as defence and rail to be able to make our own virgin steel.”

PM Starmer is expected to visit Beijing this week with Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business Secretary Peter Kyle.

It follows the government’s approval of controversial plans for a new super-embassy for China in the heart of London.

The government is running British Steel at a cost to the taxpayer but Jingye remains the legal owner.

The company is expected to demand compensation of upto £1bn for loss of ownership although the government is not prepared to meet this figure, according to latest reports.

The UK steel sector directly employs 33,700 people and a further 42,000 in the wider supply chain.

British Steel is one of the leading steel manufacturers in Europe, with the capability to produce around two million tonnes of quality steel products annually.

Speaking on economist Liam Halligan’s When the Facts Change podcast, Simon invited the Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, Reform leader Nigel Farage and deputy-leader Richard Tice and Lib Dem leader Ed Davey to meet with him and fellow steel firm bosses to discuss the future of steel in the UK.

This would include the future of British Steel and net zero driven procurement specifications and policies that exclude 25-30% of contracts being fulfilled in the UK by British Steel and encourage cheap imports.

Simon previously campaigned to save British Steel when the blast furnaces came under threat last March.

Simon Boyd OBE

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 12:58:36 GMT

REIDsteel is proud to announce that its managing director Simon Boyd has been made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s New Year Honours List.

Simon received the prestigious award in recognition of his many decades of service to British steel manufacturing and Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs).

He said: “For decades I have been doing my best to try and protect our industry and to the bring to the surface the real issues facing UK businesses.

“I am delighted to be awarded this honour in recognition of this work and at the same time I feel quite humbled by the experience.

“I would not be able to do the work I do without the help and support of my colleagues and the guidance of wise friends. It hasn’t quite sunk in yet!

“A big thank you to those who proposed and supported that I be recognised for my work through such a prestigious honour.”

Simon has become renowned for his business leadership and as a vocal and influential champion of UK based businesses, the steel industry, manufacturing and particularly SMEs.

He promotes the importance of job creation and the important role businesses play in prosperity for all; he is a passionate believer in social mobility.

He is proud to be a trustee of the Jobs Foundation charity, which champions business as ‘a force for good’ and was appointed chair of the Jobs Foundation’s South West in September 2025.

The Foundation’s ethos reflects Simon’s own commitment to social mobility to encourage and support employees and young people to reach their full potential.

Simon has been a non-executive board member of Dorset Chamber since 2019 and was elected vice-president for 2026 at its annual meeting in December 2025. REIDsteel is also a platinum business partner of the chamber.

Christchurch-based REIDsteel designs, makes, supplies and builds many different kinds of steel structures, has exported to more than 140 countries since being founded in 1919 during which time it has won the Queen's Award for Enterprise for International Trade three times.

Simon recently campaigned to save British Steel’s sole surviving blast furnaces in Scunthorpe and for the company to be brought under public ownership. He continues to fight for British Steel.

Under Simon’s leadership, REIDsteel was the first steelwork contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter in support of the UK steel making industry.

Steel leaders warn of imminent threat to industry

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 14:56:20 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd, along with two other business leaders from the UK steel industry, have called for a meeting with Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle, the leader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch, Reform leader Nigel Farage and Lib Dem leader Ed Davey early in the new year.

They wish to discuss:

The government’s continued failure to take British Steel into full public owners hip so a coherent plan can be put in place for the investment the company needs

The continued threat posed by the damaging race to net zero

The increasing thr eat from cheap Chinese steel entering the UK market along with fabricated steel which would have a devastating impact on the entire steel sector, manufacturing and the UK economy

The call comes in a letter sent to the politicians by Jonathan Clemens, chief executive of the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA).

Simon elected to new role at chamber

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:19:04 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd is the new vice-president at Dorset Chamber .

He was elected to the position at the annual meeting of the chamber of commerce, which is the county’s leading business support organisation.

Simon steps up to the role after first becoming a non-executive on the board of the chamber in 2019.

He will serve with newly elected president Gareth Sherwood, chief executive of YMCA Bournemouth , and fellow board members.

The chamber’s first ever patron was also announced at the annual meeting – HM Lord Lieutenant for Dorset Michael Dooley .

Simon said: “I will promote the needs of our members and the many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that make up the majority of businesses within Dorset and beyond.

“I will listen to the views of members and work with the chamber’s chief executive and board to represent their interests and deliver the business support that Dorset needs and deserves. I will champion our business community as the true engine of growth, innovation, social mobility and prosperity.”

Nearly 100 business people attended the annual meeting at the Marriott Hotel in Bournemouth before the chamber’s annual Christmas lunch for 160 guests, which included a toy collection and raffle in aid of the Cash for Kids charity.

REIDsteel donated a Christmas hamper for the raffle, which raised £2,400. The charity is dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across the South Coast.

The chamber of commerce, with more than 600 members representing 37,000 employees, is the county’s voice of business. Founded in 1949. it is the only chamber in Dorset accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Chinese steel decision sparks outrage

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:37:52 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has demanded a u-turn on a decision to use thousands of tonnes of Chinese steel for an £8bn green energy project in the UK.

Net Zero Teesside (NZT) is a joint venture between BP and Norwegian firm Equinor to build the world’s first gas-fired power station with carbon capture and storage. It will be one of a handful of ‘carbon-capture clusters’ that will benefit from the £22 billion of UK state aid announced at the end of last year, according to The Times.

NZT, which it is estimated will support 4,500 jobs between 2025 and 2028, is being built on the site of the former SSI steelworks in Teesside.

BP and Equinor have agreed a fixed-price contract with Balfour Beatty to construct the power station, and French firm Technip will oversee the building of the offshore and carbon-capture elements of the venture.

Project bosses have pledged that at least 50 per cent of the engineering, procurement and construction contracts will be sourced from the UK.

However, according to The Times, Technip is on the verge of agreeing a major package of 10,000 tonnes of steel with Modern, a Chinese firm.

Simon said: “This decision is outrageous.

“BP and Equinor have stipulated that there should be 20% low carbon steel.

“British Steel does not as yet make low carbon steel. There has been no investment in this type of technology or new virgin steel blast furnaces at British Steel as yet.

“The whole point of the government takeover to bring the company into public ownership, which has yet to fully complete, was to protect our steel industry.

“British Steel belongs to the British people. It is horrifying to see British Petroleum go down a procurement route that excludes British Steel.

“Virgin steel from British Steel is the finest in the world and should be used for this project - equally this steel should be fabricated in the UK rather than in China.

“British steel is at the core of the steel making in the UK, which many manufacturing businesses rely upon.

“To export this work to China beggars belief. In addition we are not only exporting the steel making, we are also exporting the steel fabrication, a sector which employs thousands of people here in the UK.

“The irony in awarding this work for a green project to China is, of course, that China is one of the biggest polluters on the planet.

“Bearing in mind that taxpayers’ money is going towards this project, the government should be rightly embarrassed and take action to see that the decision is reversed without delay.

“It needs to look after British steelmaking and the many thousands of jobs that rely on steel manufacturing in the UK.”

REIDsteel is based in Christchurch, Dorset. It designs, makes and builds steel framed structures such as bridges, hangars, stadia and airport terminals.

The company was the first steelwork contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter and has made British Steel its preferred supplier.

It has exported to more than 140 countries to date.

Steel sector builds connections

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 12:38:14 GMT

Our Sales Director Tim Outteridge and Business Development Manager Chris Evans spent a brilliant day at the British Constructional Steelwork Association’s (BCSA) Future of Steel Construction conference in London.

It was a chance to renew acquaintances, build new connections, gain insights and share ideas about the future direction of the industry.

They enjoyed catching up with many within the sector including Chris Hendy from AtkinsRealis, Simon Fryer, technical director at Buro Happold, Dean Morcom, managing director of Briton Fabrication Ltd and Tim’s colleagues from the National Steelwork Group.

Updates to design codes, fire safety, sustainability in steel design and emerging practices were among the topics under discussion.

The key takeaway was that the ever-evolving world of constructional steel is filled with exciting possibilities as a modern, vibrant and resilient sector that is vital for UK plc – but must receive the government support it deserves and requires.

There was a great atmosphere at the event with plenty of positivity in the room. Many thanks to the BCSA for bringing the sector together where we can all share in a common vision for a healthy, strong and thriving industry. We’re looking forward to next year!

Tim is pictured with Kevin Campbell , managing director of Billington Steel Structures and Stephen Dorer, BCSA regional chair for Midlands and the South and steelwork operations director at Deconstruct (UK) Ltd.

In the other shots he is with BCSA president Chris Durand, technical director at Severfield, and Geoffrey Taylor, director at Caunton Engineering

Chris is shown with John Callanan, design manager at Westok Ltd.

Round table event hailed a success

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:22:07 GMT

REIDsteel was among the businesses at a round table discussion held by the Jobs Foundation’s South West Regional Council.

More than 20 attendees from business, charity and education attended the event at Exeter College of Further Education.

They included our managing director Simon Boyd, who is chairman of the regional council and a trustee of the Jobs Foundation.

The event – for which the Jobs Foundation partnered with the college - was the council’s first round table following its launch in Christchurch in September.

It began with a panel discussion, chaired by Mike Blakeley, executive director of partnerships & apprenticeships at Exeter College and chair of the Constructing Excellence South West Skills Panel.

He was joined on the panel by Simon, Jobs Foundation co-founder and chief executive Georgiana Bristol and Helen Wylde-Archibald. Helen is the chief executive of Devon Chamber of Commerce and co-founder of South West AI Solutions Ltd.

The discussion addressed a range of issues such as AI in the workplace, the constraints on regional job creation, the benefit of investing in employees and the misconceptions around hiring from non-traditional backgrounds.

Jobs Foundation business council manager Kellen Hadfield and Simon then led a roundtable discussion focussed on the South West skills pipeline, employment from non-traditional backgrounds and the obstacles to business growth.

It was another successful event with valuable discussions about job creation, social mobility and business growth.

The council is set to announce its south west steering group shortly.

REIDsteel was one of the founding members of the Jobs Foundation.

Simon is pictured with Georgiana Bristol at the event in Exeter.

Email Kellen at kellen@thejobsfoundation.com to find out more about the regional business council.

Business as a force for good in Exeter

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 14:45:57 GMT

Our managing director Simon Boyd will be on the panel at a Jobs Foundation regional round table event in Exeter.

Simon is chair of the charity’s South West Business Council, which is holding the session at Exeter College on Tuesday November 18.

The event, titled 'Backing Business to Boost Employment: Policy Priorities from the South West', is the second to be held by the regional council following its launch in Christchurch in September.

It will be an opportunity to explore the barriers and opportunities facing businesses when it comes to creating jobs, supporting skills and driving growth across the region.

Comments at the roundtable will also form the foundation of the Jobs Foundation’s future research and policy work, as it looks to establish its South West Business Council as a voice for the region's business community.

Also on the panel in Exeter will be Jobs Foundation chief executive Georgiana Bristol, Mike Blakeley, who is executive director of partnerships and apprenticeships at Exeter College, and Helen Wylde-Archibald, who is chief executive of the Devon Chamber of Commerce .

The Jobs Foundation champions business as a force for good which creates employment, lifts people out of poverty and boosts social mobility. REIDsteel was a founding member of its business council.

The round table is being held from 12.30pm to 3pm at Exeter College’s IoT Building, in Hele Road, Exeter.

Click here for more details and to attend .

The South West Business Council launch was held at the Captain’s Club in Christchurch with Simon Boyd, Georgiana Bristol, Jobs Foundation president Lord Elliott of Mickle Fell, Aspire Jobs managing director Helen Stacey and Tim Lloyd, who is president of Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce and managing director of the Captain’s Club Hotel and Spa.

REIDsteel celebrates International Trade Week

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:38:47 GMT

REIDsteel has hailed the importance of overseas partnerships during International Trade Week 2025 .

We’ve exported to more than 140 countries to date and built steel structures on every continent on earth during 106 years of trading.

Our success has been built on close working relationships with business partners, main contractors and customers as well as our excellence in structural steel design, engineering, fabrication and supply/construction.

All of our structures are shipped from our manufacturing facility in Christchurch, Dorset, UK.

Almost any structure can be designed to fit within standard 40 foot shipping containers and then shipped to the client's destination.

We have also invested heavily in our container loading equipment to ensure that each item reaches its destination safely, securely, and in line with the project programme.

We’re proud to support communities and economic developments across the globe.

Our projects have included:

· The Civic Centre complex in Belize

· Bridges for remote rural communities in Africa and Asia

· Disaster resistant buildings for customers in the Caribbean

· Grain stores to help combat famine in Africa

We have made British Steel our main supplier because of its quality - and because most customers ask for it.

Now in its fifth year, International Trade Week (November 3 to 7) is led by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) in partnership with industry and sponsored by Santander UK.

Congratulations to all those businesses who have succeeded in international trade and very best wishes to all of those breaking into new markets overseas.

Staying ahead of curve at conference

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 15:02:13 GMT

We’re looking forward to attending ‘The Future of Steel Construction’ conference in London on November 13.

The British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) is holding the event to bring together industry experts, leaders and professionals from across the steel construction sector to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of steel.

As a firm supporter of the BCSA and with 106 years in the structural steel business, we’re keen to play our part to help build an even stronger industry.

The conference is open to construction steelwork contractors, those in the supply chain, engineers, architects and students.

Its programme includes a keynote speech, case study sessions, breakout rooms and lectures, addressing key topics such as:

· updates to Second Generation Eurocodes

· fire safety

· sustainability in steel design

· emerging practices such as refurbishment, reuse and hybrid design

There will also be an exhibition and a networking drinks reception.

We’re looking forward to catching up with fellow leading professionals and companies, hearing about new developments and contributing to the discussion about the ever-evolving world of constructional steel.

The day-long conference is being held at The Mermaid Conference Centre at Blackfriars.

Please email us at sales@reidsteel.co.uk if you wish to arrange a meeting at the event.

If you wish to attend, tickets can be booked at https://bcsa.org.uk/resources/future-of-steel-construction/conference-programme/ where more information is also available about the programme and speakers.

Government urged to get tough with EU

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:58:14 GMT

Robust action has been demanded in response to punitive new EU tariffs attacking the UK steel industry.

Simon Boyd, managing director of structural steel firm REIDsteel, has called on the UK Government to levy hard-hitting reciprocal measures to protect producers, manufacturers and the wider economy.

His comments come after the EU set out plans to cut the amount of tariff-free steel that can be imported into the bloc by half and apply a 50% tariff to all steel imports beyond this.

Simon, who campaigned to save British Steel blast furnaces at Scunthorpe earlier this year, warned the tariffs would have a devastating impact.

“The total EU market for structural steel is 8 million tonnes per annum, of which the UK is currently granted a tariff-free quota of 108,000 tonnes, equivalent to less than 2% of the market.

“Conversely, the UK market is 800,000 tonnes per annum while EU producers have a tariff-free quota of 680,000 tonnes, equivalent to 85% of the UK market. Hardly fair trade.

“The EU has announced measures to prevent dumping of Chinese steel into its markets. As part of these measures, the EU proposes to reduce the UK’s tariff-free quota by 50% to less than 1% of their market.

“In reality, EU producers have pretty much completely unlimited access to the UK market tariff free while our access to the EU market will be virtually shut down.”

Simon added: “All UK producers will be impacted by this change in policy. Not only will exports be impacted but the UK will see a flood of material if we don’t tighten our own trading measures.

“The government needs to react boldly and find a way to exclude the UK from this EU action and threaten retaliation with equal and proportionate measures.”

The UK steel sector directly employs 36,800 people and supports another 46,000 jobs in the supply chain, according to figures from UK Steel in June of this year.

It makes a £1.7bn direct contribution to the UK economy, an additional £2.2bn to the supply chain and a direct contribution of £3.1bn to the UK’s balance of trade.

Simon added: “This is a wholly unacceptable attack on the UK steel industry.

“The EU may need to prop up its own ailing steel sector and fight off Chinese steel dumping but this cannot be at the expense of the UK. There is no time to lose.”

REIDsteel is based in Christchurch, Dorset, UK, has exported to more than 140 countries in 106 years of trading.

Cladding Detailer

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 08:44:37 GMT

Role Overview

To support growth and professional development, we are looking for an additional cladding draughtsperson to join our busy Drawing Office.

As a key member of our internal project team, you will be responsible for detailing the roof and wall cladding and associated items for our steel structures. Your drawings will be used in the manufacture of sheet metal items and installation of cladding, flashings, gutters and trims on site.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Preparing cladding layout drawings and flashing and gutter details.
Liaising with in-house designers, steelwork draughtsperson, bid managers and construction team as well as attending external design team meetings with architects, engineers and clients.
Liaising with Works Manager and factory team regarding drawing issues and queries.
Assisting with site surveys when required.
Creating flashing, gutter and fabrication drawings.
Preparing lists for manufacturing, purchase and despatch.
Issuing and monitoring Requests for Information (RFIs) with clients, and responding to site queries.
Creating detailed parts and fixings inventories of all cladding elements.
Attending launch and project meetings.
Advising project managers of any extras or variations as the project progresses.

Key Skills

Previous cladding experience in a similar industry.
AutoCAD or similar 2D software.
Attention to detail.
Organised and methodical.
Mathematically capable – applying trigonometry and checking calculations.
Good communicator – working well within an internal/external project team and obtaining the information you need.
Commercial awareness – to understand the potential implication of project changes and variations.

The above list is not exhaustive but it covers the main duties of the role.
There may be other duties, not mentioned here, which become part of the job.

Please apply to hr@reidsteel.co.uk

Return to Employment Opportunities

Jobs Foundation lifts off in South West

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:26:17 GMT

Businesses were urged to throw their weight behind the Jobs Foundation at its regional launch in Dorset.

The charity held its first South West Business Council event with presentations about its work, a panel discussion and questions and answer session.

It champions business as a force for good which creates employment, lifts people out of poverty and boosts social mobility.

More than 40 supporters attended its South West Business Council launch at the Captain’s Club in Christchurch.

Regional chairman Simon Boyd, who is managing director of Christchurch-based REIDsteel, led the panel discussion with Jobs Foundation president Lord Elliott of Mickle Fell, Aspire Jobs managing director Helen Stacey and Tim Lloyd, who is president of Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce and managing director of the Captain’s Club Hotel and Spa.

Topics included the Employment Rights Bill, the South West jobs market, the hospitality sector, industries best positioned to provide jobs of the future and policy proposals to help businesses create the jobs needed to move two million people from welfare into work.

The role of AI, apprenticeships, higher education, workplace-ready training for young people, the Budget, underrepresentation of women in the workplace and support for disabled people in employment were among the topics which generated engaging discussions during the Q&A.

Lord Elliott called for businesses to raise awareness of its proposals for a new Skills Tax Relief in the Budget to enable businesses to recoup costs associated with apprenticeships, vocational training and work-based learning to create jobs for nearly one million young people not in education, employment or training.

REIDsteel was among the earliest supporters of the Jobs Foundation, which has now has more than 1,300 members on its business council nationwide.

Simon, who is a trustee of the foundation, issued a rallying cry for people to join.

“Numbers started as a trickle but are steadily growing across the business community.

“The more businesses we have, the more power we can generate to pass on expertise to help more people into work and effect policy change.”

He added: “The Jobs Foundation is a fantastic vehicle of opportunity for young people, disabled people, older people, those out of work and for businesses to come together to share good ideas and do what’s right for our community, our people and our country.“

The South West is the second regional Business Council to be launched nationwide, after the North East in May.

Its next event is a policy roundtable at Exeter College in November with 75 business leaders from across the South West.

Georgiana Bristol, chief executive of the Jobs Foundation, said: “We were delighted to launch our South West Business Council.

“It will host regional policy roundtables, contribute to the Jobs Foundation’s research programme and become a crucial network for our accreditation scheme when it launches in 2026.

“Thanks go to our panel, everyone who attended the launch and our South West Business Council Chairman, Simon Boyd, and REIDsteel, without who this event would not have been possible.”

The foundation is an independent, non-partisan charity. Its council is free to join.

Global structural steel firm REIDsteel was among the founder members of its business council and featured in its launch video.

Visit https://thejobsfoundation.com/ to find out more about the Jobs Foundation and https://thejobsfoundation.com/join-us/ to join its business council.

Backing business as a force for good

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 13:44:46 GMT

The countdown is on for the launch of the Jobs Foundation’s South West Business Council.

It is being held at the Captain’s Club in Christchurch on Thursday September 25 with a panel of speakers chaired by our managing director Simon Boyd.

REIDsteel was a founding member of Jobs Foundation and Simon is a trustee of the charity.

He was recently appointed chair of the new South West Business Council.

The event on September 25 will formally bring together members in the region and introduce the Foundation’s work to those are interested in finding out more about what it does.

Panellists at the launch will be recruitment expert Helen Stacey of Aspire Jobs , Jobs Foundation president Lord Elliott of Mickle Fell and Christchurch Chamber of Trade and Commerce president Tim Lloyd , who is managing director of the Captain's Club Hotel and Spa.

An independent and non-partisan charity, the Jobs Foundation was founded in 2023. It believes that business is a force for good which generates employment, boosts social mobility and lifts people out of poverty.

It also stands firmly behind business by campaigning for policies and measures which allow them to achieve these goals.

The launch event in Christchurch will also be an opportunity to give businesses richly-deserved for recognition and thanks for their critical work in creating jobs, generating tax revenues for public services, supporting communities, driving local economies and fostering social cohesion.

It is from 3pm to 4.30pm and includes an afternoon tea.

To find out more about the event email southwest@thejobsfoundation.com

REIDsteel MD stars on Daily Telegraph podcast

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:34:37 GMT

Simon's Interview commences approximately 33 minutes in...

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd spoke of business concerns when he was a guest on the Daily Telegraph’s Planet Normal podcast.

Simon appeared on the popular podcast to discuss the Jobs Foundation’s latest report, 'Jobs and Energy' with journalist and columnist Liam Halligan .

The conversation also covered such subject matter as the steel sector, manufacturing, the future of British Steel , high electricity costs and the ‘dangerous’ race to net zero.

Simon was critical of Ed Miliband , the Secretary for Energy and Climate Change.

He said: “He is so far detached from reality and I think it’s quite dangerous.”

Simon described net zero as ‘an absolute disaster’ for steel and manufacturing, and said he did not understand the confusing government policy.

“They’re encouraging everyone to buy British steel with one hand, but with the other, they demand low carbon content materials. It doesn’t work.”

Simon also hit out at government for failing to grasp the importance of business:

“It is real madness at the heart of successive governments who don’t understand the principles of good business.”

The Planet Normal podcast is hosted by Liam Halligan with fellow Daily Telegraph columnist Allison Pearson .

Listen to the episode with Simon here and here :

REIDsteel welcomes new business development managers

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:14:13 GMT

Global structural steel firm REIDsteel has strengthened its business development team with two high-calibre appointments. The 130-strong firm has welcomed experienced industry professionals Chris Evans and Edith Gil as business development managers under strategic growth plans.

Chris joins the market leading company with a 35-year track record in business development and sales in the steel, metals, manufacturing and construction sectors.

Multi-lingual Edith comes to REIDsteel with more than 30 years’ experience in business development and sales across multiple sectors worldwide.

They join multi-award-winning REIDsteel as the Christchurch-based business continues to grow, expand into new markets and widen its international reach.

The company, which has exported to more than 140 countries to date in 106 years of trading, designs, manufactures and supplies steel structures including primary and secondary steel, cladding and glazing for the full building envelope.

Its steel structures, including hangars, bridges, stadia, commercial and residential property and disaster resistant buildings designed to withstand such natural events as hurricanes and tsunamis.

Simon Boyd, REIDsteel managing director, said:

“A very warm welcome goes to Edith and Chris.

“They are high-calibre, experienced and results-orientated professionals with proven track records of success in business development across the UK, Europe and world.

“They represent an investment in the future of REIDsteel and the company’s strategic growth plans as well as our ability to support even more partners and customers with a smooth and seamless service.

“We look forward to seeing Edith and Chris forge the next phases of their successful careers at the company.”

Chris will be focusing on business development in the UK and Europe, while Edith’s remit covers international business development.

Chris said: “I am excited to start my new role and look forward to introducing many more partners and customers to REID’s exceptional range of steel structures.”

Edith, who is fluent in multiple languages including French and Spanish, said: “REIDsteel’s name is a hallmark of quality worldwide which gives me a great starting point in my new role.”

REIDsteel supplies steel structures from its headquarters in Christchurch, Dorset, UK, including those shipped worldwide.

It can erect the structures with its own inhouse team or supply a supervisor for construction, especially for projects outside of the UK.

REIDsteel was the first UK steel contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter and has made British Steel its preferred supplier.

The company won a prestigious Structural Steel Design Award – the top industry accolade – for a 'super hangar' at London Biggin Hill Airport to be used by Bombardier in 2022.

It is also a four times winner of the Queen’s Award’s for Enterprise (International Trade) to date.

Visit https://www.reidsteel.com/ for more information.

Cuts to energy costs need to go further

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 09:43:04 GMT

We’ve backed calls from an influential pressure group for the government to slash energy costs for business.

We’re throwing our weight behind a report by the Jobs Foundation charity warning that soaring energy prices are placing thousands of high-quality jobs at risk and holding back the UK’s long-term economic competitiveness.

The Foundation called for action in ‘Jobs and Energy: The effect of high costs on the UK jobs market’ which was timed to co-incide with the government’s publication of its long-awaited industrial strategy.

REIDsteel is a member of the foundation’s business council and our managing director Simon Boyd is a trustee.

Simon stated in the report: “The impact of persistently high energy costs is doing untold damage to British businesses.

“It goes far beyond our heavy industries like steel and chemical plants which are at the core of UK manufacturing.

“The result; limited financial resources for businesses to invest in new technologies, upskilling, growth plans and future employment.

“If we don’t get serious about tackling the cost of energy, we won’t just lose industries, we’ll lose the chain of businesses that sustain our economy.”

The Jobs Foundation gave the first analysis of its kind identifying where in the UK jobs are most at threat because of the high cost of energy and warned that Labour MPs seats are in danger at the next election.

Its report highlights that UK industrial electricity prices are among the highest in the developed world – more than 46% above the average of comparator nations. For large users, this premium rises to over 100%, placing British firms at a significant disadvantage in global markets.

The government’s new 10-year industrial strategy included measures to reduce electricity costs for 7,000 energy intensive business through a new ‘British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme’ which will exempt companies from paying various green levies but will not come into force until 2027 after a consultation.

About 500 of the most energy-intensive firms will also have their network charges cut through an increased discount in the British Industry Supercharger scheme from 60% to 90% from 2026 onwards.

Simon said: “These measures are a tacit admission of the failure of the government’s nonsensical and ill-conceived race to net zero policy.

“While measures to reduce electricity costs may be welcome for energy intensive businesses, the government needs to get to the root of the problem as a matter of urgency.

“That includes immediately abandoning its completely unsustainable race to net zero targets and instead taking a more measured approach which will support our industrial base and help it grow while allowing our country to pursue cleaner energy aspirations in a much more realistic, cost-effective and efficient way.”

Earlier this year we launched a Save British Steel campaign to keep steel blast furnaces open in Scunthorpe.

We use British Steel in our design, manufacture and erection of steel structures, including bridges, aircraft hangars and airports, around the world.

The Jobs Foundation is a charity (1202928) set up to champion the role of business as a force for good, supporting the crucial role companies play giving people a step up in life by providing jobs and training opportunities.

It is a non-partisan organisation led by president Matthew Elliott and chief executive Georgiana Bristol.

Visit https://thejobsfoundation.com/jobs-and-energy-the-effect-of-high-energy-costs-on-the-uk-jobs-market/ to read the Jobs Foundation report.

REIDsteel and British Steel build stronger futures

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 11:18:30 GMT

Our managing director Simon Boyd showed REIDsteel’s support in person on a visit to British Steel in Scunthorpe.
He met staff and was given a tour of the works when he saw one of the blast furnaces which has been saved from closure.

Simon presented senior management and blast furnace workers with framed prints thanking the company for supporting REIDsteel by making the finest steel in the world. Simon is pictured presenting the gifts to management and workers in front of the Queen Anne furnace.
They show 3,250 tonnes of steel made and forged in Scunthorpe and Teesside in structures designed, fabricated and exported to South East Asia by REIDsteel.
The citation reads:

“Thank you to everyone at British Steel.

“Without you it would not have been possible for us to design and manufacture these structures under the banner of Made in Britain.

“To date we have used British steel in projects throughout the UK and in over 140 countries across the world. Including the one on the right, due for completion in 2026.

“British made steel, the finest.”

REIDsteel was the first steelwork contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter and has made British Steel its preferred supplier.
Simon has been a vocal support of British Steel during its recent challenges.

He said: “REIDsteel is incredibly proud to be supporting British Steel, which produces the finest steel in the world.
“I am grateful to British Steel for a fantastic visit and the opportunity to meet the staff who are taking the company forward to better times.

“I urge the government to press on with taking British Steel under full public ownership, at which point it can plan new investment for a long and prosperous future for steelmaking in the UK.”

REIDsteel and Dorset Chamber are strong as steel

Tue, 06 May 2025 15:44:23 GMT

We're proud to have renewed our membership as a Platinum Business Partner with Dorset Chamber.

The chamber's chief executive Ian Girling visited our headquarters in Christchurch to present a certificate marking the partnership to our Managing Director Simon Boyd, who is a also a member of the chamber's board.

We first became a Platinum Business Partner in 2020 and have seen first hand all of the valuable work the chamber does to support businesses in the area, fight their corner and help drive the local economy. It is one of the most progressive, dynamic and successful chambers of commerce in the country.

As a leading employer with its roots in the local area and a major contributor to the supply chain, our platinum business partnership allows us to support the chamber, the business community and the local economy too.

We're looking forward to building an even stronger relationship with the chamber - and our fellow business partners - over the coming year. Standing together has never been more important.

British Steel Blasts Ahead

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 07:45:58 GMT

Simon Boyd, managing director of REIDsteel, said: “What next - nationalisation, investment and an end to the mad race for net zero?

“Now that the raw materials are in place and the blast furnaces can continue to operate, the government must take the next step to take British Steel into full public ownership.

“That is the only way that the company is going to get the investment it needs to make long term gains for the industry, economy and country, and attract appropriate future private investment. “Our government must learn the lessons of the past; when putting a core industry into public-private ownership it must as a minimum hold a golden share.

“I fully support the new management team that have been put in place at British Steel as they are fundamental to its future success. “Government must now fully support the company to produce an achievable and costed investment programme that will deliver for the British people over the long term.

“Let’s remember that governments have provided billions to support the financial sector.

“According to the House of Commons Library, during the 2007 to 2009 banking crisis the government injected £137bn of public money in loans and capital to stabilise the financial system, costing the public £23bn overall. “In addition, the government provided £1 trillion of guarantees to restore confidence in the banks.

The ask for British Steel will be high, but it will be a fraction of the level provided for banks. “The government must also adopt a more strategic approach and ensure that British Steel is not excluded by specifiers in the UK.

“Those who currently specify Low Carbon Targets in construction, including devolved nations like Wales, automatically exclude British Steel as a supplier because we do not have the capability to produce low carbon steel. It will take at least five years to get Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs) up and running.

“That means getting to grips with the nonsensical, unrealistic and damaging race to net zero targets which are pushing up energy costs and forcing specifiers to choose steel with a lower carbon content in projects.

“Businesses, the public sector and other specifiers must be able to procure virgin British Steel, so government must act immediately to remove any barrier to using British Steel. Indeed, government should make it a mandatory requirement wherever it is appropriate.

“Notwithstanding the above, we must not restrict our options to EAFs and to existing blast furnace methods. We must take this opportunity to invest in the latest steelmaking technologies for both virgin and recycled steel.

“In doing this, we will ensure we have the capabilities to make all the grades of steel we require while being the cleanest producers of the best quality steel in the world.

“I’m in favour of reducing the UK’s carbon footprint but a continued insistence on short-term net zero targets is not only damaging to UK manufacturing but risks choking off the rebirth of British Steel.”

Politicians urged to save British Steel

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 13:57:24 GMT

The managing director of a UK firm which uses British Steel products to build structures worldwide has written to every MP calling for the company to be nationalised.

Simon Boyd, of structural steel firm REIDsteel, says action must be taken urgently to bring the business into public ownership.

He has written to all 650 members of parliament – including Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

His call comes after British Steel opened a consultation on the closure of the country’s remaining two blast furnaces in Scunthorpe.

Simon writes: “Action must be taken urgently to save British Steel - and that means taking the company into public ownership, where it belongs.”

He adds: “High grade steel made in blast furnaces is critical for use in our defence, aerospace and other industries as well as for our national infrastructure and economy.

“There is no time to lose. The blast furnaces will close as soon as June this year, if the reports are true that the Chinese owners have stopped the forward order of raw materials; making the closure a fait accompli.

“If British Steel closes its blast furnaces, the UK will be forced to rely on imported steel. Steelmaking in the UK is essential to our manufacturing base, our security and infrastructure.”

The UK steel industry contributes £4.2bn to the UK economy and supports 75,000 jobs. Simon has written to the MPs as part of his Save British Steel campaign.

He writes: “We must retain and then replace our blast furnaces with new modern blast furnaces and production technology and further invest in Electric Arc Furnaces for the future.”

British Steel has launched a consultation on the proposed closure of its two blast furnaces at Scunthorpe, putting up to 2,700 jobs at risk. Options include ending operations by early June, in September, or at a later date.

Dorset-based REIDsteel uses British Steel in its design, manufacture and erection of steel structures, including bridges, aircraft hangars and airports, around the world.

It used British Steel in a dual-cantilever hangar at Biggin Hill Airport – the largest to be built for more than 50 years - which won a Structural Steel Design Award in 2022.

The company was the first steelwork contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter and make British Steel its primary supplier.

British Steel – REIDsteel comment

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 10:39:05 GMT

Simon Boyd, managing director of REIDsteel, said: “REIDsteel was the first steel contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter and make British Steel its primary supplier.

“Great Britain once led the world in steelmaking but successive governments have passively watched the sale of British Steel as it has passed through various hands.

“They have failed to take a golden share in the company or exert any semblance of control but instead were content to let the private sector take the pain associated with an industry that is vital for our infrastructure and security, and requires significant investment.

“The current situation is that British Steel sees no future in blast furnace virgin steel .This is a mistake.

“Our government’s current policy is that we produce green steel, which requires the use of Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs). These EAFs are at least five years away and the size of investment totals circa £2bn.

“British Steel needed a contribution of at least £1bn to make the transformation and the government offered half of that required, which has been rejected by British Steel.

“The raw material for EAFs is scrap steel yet there is only enough scrap in the world to provide one third of the total demand. So there remains a huge need for blast furnaces which can produce new ‘virgin’ steel.

“This virgin steel is critical for the UK’s defence in an uncertain world and other major industries. We ought to be investing in both blast furnace and EAF steel so we have the capability to make both virgin and low carbon steel in the UK.

“To be left without the capability to make virgin steel is a real risk to the UK. Once our blast furnaces are shut they can never be used again.

“All the race to net zero does is export our manufacturing jobs and steelmaking to countries such as China and India, and as a result we export our carbon emissions too. There is only one atmosphere.

“Furthermore, the need to then import steel from these countries will only increase costs and our carbon footprint by having to bring it over here. It will also leave us beholden to other countries and add costs in the UK which will make it harder for us to export manufactured goods which rely on raw steel products.

“I am very much in favour of a cleaner environment but to get to net zero we must use our own technologies and capabilities to produce clean virgin steel and low carbon steel, and that is going to take time.

“To reach net zero in the way the previous and current government seem hellbent upon, is going to do nothing for the environment but will instead destroy our country’s industrial base and push more people into poverty.

“The UK steel industry contributes £4.2bn to the UK economy and supports 75,000 jobs. It is time for the government to stand up and be counted and take control of this situation however it manifests itself. Public/part ownership should be considered, if it’s an option.

“With the threatened closure and loss of jobs, an injection of £1bn would help resolve the immediate crisis but there can be no doubt that a higher degree of investment and support will be required to put British Steel back where it belongs.

“We must save British steelmaking at all costs. Anything less would be catastrophic for our country.”

New accolade for REIDsteel

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:11:11 GMT

REIDsteel has been named as one of the top businesses in the south of England.

We’ve been ranked in the annual Solent 250 listing of privately-owned, independent businesses with the highest turnover in the region.

The accolade is richly deserved recognition for members of our talented and committed team who work hard every single day to make the company such a success.

We rub shoulders in the table with the likes of fellow Dorset firms Merlin Entertainments, Lush Cosmetics, Sunseeker, AFC Bournemouth and CG Fry.

Topping the table is smart energy expert Utilita of Chandlers Ford, followed by Poole-based theme park operator Merlin and air traffic management specialist NATS of Fareham.

Qualifying companies for the Solent 250 must be headquartered in the Solent which is defined as Hampshire (south of Basingstoke), parts of Dorset, Wiltshire and West Sussex.

The Business Magazine has complied the annual table with sponsorship from HSBC UK , CMA Recruitment Group , Broadfield , Evelyn Partners , Aura Technology and Gallagher .

Steel Erector

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 11:49:32 GMT

Role Overview

* experienced and trainee roles available *

We are looking to grow our site team and have great opportunities for both experienced steel erectors / cladding installers and trainees.

As a key member of the site team you will construct steel structures from large aircraft hangars to grandstands and highway bridges with all their steel components and associated roof and wall cladding.

You will have the opportunity to work on prestigious construction projects in the UK and potentially overseas.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Comply with all relevant Company Health, Safety and Environmental policies.

Work in accordance with Company core values.

Ensure that all work carried out is done safely in accordance with the Company’s policies and appropriate Method Statements/Risk Assessments.

Possess the ability to read and understand drawings and follow safe working practices in the preassembly and erection of structural steelwork at low and high levels.

Sling loads, signal and work with cranes.

Carry out crane supervisor duties in accordance with training.

Working at height and operating high level access equipment e.g. Mobile Operating Platforms (MEWP’s).

Erect steelwork.

Operate site plant and equipment.

Fit prefabricated sheet metal (flashings and trims) and structural decking.

Install roof, vertical and horizontal cladding systems.

Key Skills

A full UK driving licence.
A valid CSCS Steel Erector and / or Cladder card resulting from NVQ (preferably L3) assessment.
A valid CPCS Slinger / signaller card.
A valid CPCS Plant Operator card or IPAF for MEWPS Operator card.
Be willing to work away from home in the UK and overseas; this is a key part of the role.

The Company will support trainees in gaining the industry qualifications.

Skills

Team player
Hard working
Positive attitude
Attention to detail

The above list is not exhaustive but it covers the main duties of the role.
There may be other duties, not mentioned here, which become part of the job.

Please apply to hr@reidsteel.co.uk

Return to Employment Opportunities

Simon continues support for Chamber

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:59:01 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has been re-elected to the board of Dorset Chamber as a non-executive director.

Simon, pictured third left, was among the appointments at the business support organisation’s 2024 annual meeting. He was first elected in 2019.

REIDsteel is also a platinum business partner of the Dorset Chamber and is proud to support the organisation in its mission to ‘drive the growth and prosperity of businesses as the county’s leading business support and representative organisation’.

The annual meeting was held at the end of the chamber’s highly successful 75th anniversary year, which included its Dorset Business Festival with the theme of ‘business as a force for good’.

Tony Brown, of Y-Not Finance, was elected for a second term as president and Gareth Sherwood, chief executive of YMCA Bournemouth, was elected as vice-president.

Other board appointments at the annual meeting included Caron Khan as past president, Helen Stacey as chair of the council of ambassadors, Matthew Fretten as honorary solicitor, Lesley Fox as honorary treasurer, Future Leaders Forum chair Toni Taylor along with Simon Boyd, Nicky Busst, Lesley Keets and Gail Polkinghorne as non-executive directors.

Dorset Chamber, with nearly 700 members representing 37,000 employees, is the county’s leading business support organisation and its voice of business.

It is the only chamber in the county accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

(Picture: Dorset Chamber)

Dorset businesses back Jobs Foundation

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 15:48:18 GMT

Support is growing from companies in Dorset for the national Jobs Foundation charity which champions ‘business as a force for good‘.

An independent and non-partisan organisation, it advocates for business of all kinds for the valuable role they play in society – including job creation, training, lifting people out of poverty, advancing social mobility and providing funding for public services through tax.

Simon Boyd, managing director of Christchurch-based REIDsteel, a founding member of the Jobs Foundation’s business council, said: “The Jobs Foundation is not a trade organisation nor is it a politically biased lobby group.

“It is a much-needed organisation that recognises the important role that businesses and those who run them play in society.

“Businesses are often seen by many as vehicles of good fortune for those who own or run them and as such, the vital role they play in society sometimes gets ignored.

“Business should be celebrated for their achievements and role in creating employment and taking people from welfare into work.”

Simon, who is a trustee of the foundation, added: “I urge every business to join the foundation.

“Having a grouping of businesses across the spectrum, no matter their size or sector, will help us realise change and promote the positive impact every business makes on society.”

The Jobs Foundation launched in 2023. Nearly 1,000 business have already joined as members of its business council – covering a broad range of sectors, sizes and regions – with many from Dorset.

Jobs Foundation president Lord Matthew Elliott, who was one of the keynote speakers at the Dorset Chamber’s Business Festival conference in October, said: “Businesses deserve thanks and recognition for all they do.

“There is growing support for the foundation in Dorset where businesses of all kinds continue to join and help us show that business is a force for good.”

Dorset Chamber’s Business Festival Conference in October had the theme of ‘business as a force for good’.

The chamber, which is Dorset’s leading business support organisation and the county’s voice of business, has thrown its weight behind the foundation.

Ian Girling, chief executive, said: “ We fully support the work of the Jobs Foundation and completely agree with its principles.

“Our Business Festival conference showed just how critically important a role business plays in Dorset and I would encourage firms to join the council to support the valuable work of the foundation.”

Dorset Chamber has nearly 700 members, representing 37,000 employees, and is the only chamber in the county affiliated to the British Chambers of Commerce. It is Dorset’s voice of business.

REIDsteel, which employees 130 people, designs, manufactures, and builds steel structures including their secondary steel, cladding, glazing and doors. It has exported to more than 140 countries to date.

The Jobs Foundation provides businesses with tools and practical support to find and train people in poverty within their community.

It has recently released its foundational research ‘Two Million Jobs’ showing how businesses play a crucial role in helping people from welfare into work.

Its business council is free to join through a simple form on its website at https://thejobsfoundation.com/join/ or email info@thejobsfoundation.com with your contact details saying you wish to join.

Businesses can also leave their details with REIDsteel by emailing kylierachman@reidsteel.co.uk and they will be passed on to the Jobs Foundation.

Structural Engineer

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:58:07 GMT

Role Overview

This is a great opportunity for an established Structural Engineer to join our expanding Design team.

You will ideally have 5 years’ post graduate experience and be a Chartered Member of the IStructE or working towards chartership.

As Structural Engineer, you will be expected to assist bid management in the preparation of offers; the Drawing Office in the detailing of the building elements; site management in the safe methods of building; and the end clients with a view to meeting the provisions of our contract and encouraging them to come back to us. This is a demanding, hands-on structural engineering position.

We are a well-established company and have a large export market, so the ability to use a variety of codes and design criteria is important.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Complying with all relevant Company Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental policies.
Conceptual design – working in partnership with the sales team.
Analysis design – using linear element or finite element software.
Detail design – of all connections, bolts and welds.
Preparing design calculations for draughtspeople and building control.
Taking a leading role in preparing the CDM risk register for each building.
Assisting with the preparation of safe erection methods.
Attending meetings, both internal and client facing, as required.
Optimising designs to produce structures that are safe, easy to draw, manufacture, ship and erect as well as being cost effective.
Assisting with the preparation of operation and maintenance manuals for the client.

Key Skills

MIStructE or working towards chartership.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team to meet specification, budget and programme as well as resolve any challenges that arise.
CAD software.
In depth knowledge of structural analysis concepts.
Seismic design experience.
Linear element or finite element analysis experience.
Surveying experience.

The above list is not exhaustive but it covers the main duties of the role.
There may be other duties, not mentioned here, which become part of the job.

Please apply to hr@reidsteel.co.uk

Return to Employment Opportunities

Record golf day is in the bag

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:53:09 GMT

FORE! Players from REIDsteel teed off in style at the company’s third annual golf day, with the best turnout so far.

Nine teams hit the fairways at Christchurch Golf Club at Iford when first place was taken by Shannon Hall and Kit Tomkins.

Jimmy Sloane and Steve McIlroy were runners- up, while Tim Outteridge and Joanne Robinson took bronze.

Steve McIlroy claimed the coveted prize for best golf socks, while longest drive went to Darren Barton and Sean Burchell was nearest the pin.

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd attended to present the prizes. Thanks go to Simon for the prizes and to Kevin Maddison for sponsoring the two of the categories.

It was a great day with kind weather and lots of fun. We’re now practising in for next year!

ROLL OF HONOUR:

FIRST: Shannon Hall and Kit Tomkins – 48

SECOND: Jimmy Sloane and Steve McIlroy – 43

THIRD: Tim Outteridge and Joanne Robinson – 43

BEST GOLF SOCKS: Steve McIlroy

LONGEST DRIVE: Darren Barton

NEAREST THE PIN: Sean Burchell

Reidsteel-Attends-Festival

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 12:43:18 GMT

REIDsteel threw its support behind Dorset Chamber ’s highly successful Business Festival Conference.

The event featured keynote speakers Matthew Elliott , president of the The Jobs Foundation , and social entrepreneur Benita Matofska .

Flying the flag for REIDsteel were managing director Simon Boyd – who is a trustee of The Jobs Foundation and a board member of the chamber – along with Tim Outteridge , Donna Campo , Tim Reid , Timothy Cook and Simon Morgan . Simon is pictured second from the right in the picture to the left.

The conference had the theme of ‘business as a force for good’ – echoing the ethos of The Jobs Foundation.

It was one of the highlights of a two-week festival – the largest of its kind in the area – being held to celebrate, support and champion business.

Broadcaster Declan Curry hosted the conference at the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth, which included speeches, panel debates, question and answer sessions, networking and presentations.

Lord Elliott, president of the Jobs Foundation, championed the role of business in advancing social mobility, lifting people out of poverty and supporting business growth as well as in job creation, training and contributions to the treasury.

More than 150 delegates packed into this year’s event. It demonstrated how an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) focus can make a positive impact as well as boost profits.

Panel discussions covered such subjects as

Embedding Environmental and Social Responsibility for Growth
Sustainable Business: Where Profit and Planet Align
Leadership and Innovation. Business as a Problem Solver
Gen Z, Gen Alpha and Beyond: Their Future in our Hands

We were proud to support the event as a platinum business partner of Dorset Chamber. Our MD Simon is a board member of the chamber and a trustee of the Jobs Foundation. (Pictures: Dorset Chamber)

Government urged to rethink damaging red tape

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 12:35:05 GMT

Campaigning business leader Simon Boyd has called on the government to create better regulation rather than more damaging laws.

He has written to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds , and copied his letter across political parties, warning that red tape is stifling SMEs’ ability to grow, deliver increased tax take to the Exchequer and drive social mobility.

Simon is managing director of Dorset-based global structural steel firm REIDsteel, a trustee of the Jobs Foundation , a non-executive director of Dorset Chamber and was South West regional chairman of Business for Britain.

His comments follow the announcement of the Employment Rights Bill in the King’s Speech introducing a host of reforms in the workplace and after Mr Reynolds defended measures to support flexible working.

Simon said: “If our government is serious about growth, it needs to stimulate the business economy.

“While blanket regulation and economic policy may be less burdensome for large businesses, multi-nationals and the public sector, SMEs suffer disproportionally.

“A one-size-fits-all approach does not work and acts as a straitjacket on SMEs, damaging their ability to grow and develop.

“It is anti-competitive and punishes SMEs by placing them at a disadvantage to those larger businesses who can more easily absorb the cost and the disruptive impact on their everyday working practices and profitability.

“Increased regulation of the kind announced in the Employment Rights Bill will only do more damage.

“Government should be eradicating regulations that are not fit for purpose and damage business.”

SMEs are the backbone of business in this country. According to figures of May 2024 from the House of Commons Library , there were 5.51 million SMEs in the UK as of 2023.

This represents more than 99% of the business population. They account for 61% of UK private sector employment and around half of all business turnover, some £2.4 trillion.

Simon said that the value of SMEs appears to have been ignored by successive governments in favour of support for the financial sector and big business.

He has called for a meeting with Mr Reynolds to discuss better regulation and greater access to affordable finance for SMEs.

Simon called for more financial backing when he was among the speakers at a manifesto launch at Parliament by the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) earlier this year.

Simon continued in his letter: “Better regulation and targeted support for SMEs will boost productivity, stimulate growth, and create the higher-skilled, higher-paid workforce which we all desire.

“This will ultimately deliver increased tax take to the Exchequer and drive social mobility.

“It is not government that lifts people out of poverty, but business. Businesses provide employment and investment in people. It is our business community that can deliver for the country provided they are properly supported by government.”

The latest CBI/Pertemps Employment Trends Survey found that 62% of respondents believe that the UK will become a slightly or much less attractive place to do business in the next five years if the government’s employment law reforms go through.

The Employment Rights Bill is expected to include a right to flexible working by ‘default’, a ban on zero hours contracts, full employment rights from day one and new rules surrounding parental leave and sick pay. There is even talk of a four-day week.

Christchurch-based REIDsteel is a medium-sized enterprise and structural steel business with 130 people and a multi-million pound UK supply chain which has been trading for 105 years worldwide

The Jobs Foundation is a charity which champions ‘business as a force for good’ which drives social mobility and lifts people out of poverty.

Helicopter Maintenance Hangar - UK

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 16:24:24 GMT

Space for up to 32 Helicopters

This helicopter maintenance facility is home to 250 staff and provides maintenance and support for helicopters already in service. The facility was officially opened in mid-September 2024 in an event attended by the Prince of Wales.

The client met our team and talked of the tremendous benefits a new facility brings; new customers, new government contracts and, most importantly, an increase in morale within his team due to moving from their 1940’s building to this new state-of-the-art facility.

Within the facility we have provided over 6200 sq m of hangar space, room for up to 32 helicopters. Alongside this we have created over 5000 sq m of office and warehouse space split over two levels.

The hangar area includes three 700 Kg SWL interior cranes which each cover around 90% of their section. The 163m x 7.5m opening to the hangar features eleven powered and glazed door slabs on two tracks. Three of the slabs feature our threshold-less personnel doors.

This was the first hangar to feature our new hangar door head system which offers several benefits including saving fabrication and installation set up time, as well as reducing the dead weight imposed on the truss allowing the supporting frame to be lighter.

The hangar has 450 sq m of glazing in the form of curtain walling, windows and glazed doors supplied by our glazing division, REIDglazing.

Prior to opening, we spent a day training multiple groups of staff on the safe use and maintenance of the hangar doors as part of our Hangar Door service.

Ref: 118948

REIDsteel extends Premier League Kicks sponsorship

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 12:27:26 GMT

REIDsteel is proud to announce that it is once again supporting Premier League club AFC Bournemouth’s Premier League Kicks Christchurch sessions this season.

We will also continue as an official partner of the club’s Community Sports Trust for 2024/25.

Premier League Kicks was formed in partnership with the Metropolitan Police with the aim of involving young people in regular physical activity to help create safer and more inclusive communities.

The project offers free football and additional opportunities to more than 1,000 young people locally every year.

Sessions take place at Mudeford Wood Community Centre between 4-5pm on Wednesdays for ages 8-10 and between 5-6pm for ages 11-14.

There is no pre-registration needed for any of these sessions as they all operate on a turn-up-and-play basis.

The initiative will see a player ambassador from both the AFC Bournemouth women’s and men’s teams take part in a session.

Staff of REIDsteel will have the opportunity to take part in sessions and support community coaches.

AFC Bournemouth commercial director Rob Mitchell said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with REIDsteel, both as a sponsor of Premier League Kicks Christchurch and as an official partner of the Community Sports Trust.

“Premier League Kicks is an extremely valuable and worthwhile initiative which encourages young people to take part in regular physical activity to help create safer and more inclusive communities.

“As a club, we are very keen to support the project and having a local company like REIDsteel backing it helps us do this so we are very grateful to them.”

REIDsteel operations director Donna Campo said: “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to support Premier League Kicks for another season.

“I’ve seen how much enjoyment our local young people get from these sessions and how it can promote positive wellbeing. The Community Sports Trust does fantastic work in our community and we’re proud to be able to be involved.”

We’re lucky to have such a progressive and community-minded football club as AFC Bournemouth on our doorstep.

We hope everyone enjoys the Premier League Kicks sessions and our very best wishes go to the club for another successful season in the The Premier League .

(Picture: AFC Bournemouth)

PMF Warehouse - UK

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 14:13:51 GMT

Three different types of cladding adding an architectural “touch”

Completed in summer 2024, this duo-pitch hipped roof industrial unit, base in West Byfleet was built in conjunction with PMF Property Management.

Although a relatively simple structure, the hipped roof added an extra level of complexity to the design, build and fabrication of the superstructure.

This industrial unit included a glazed entrance and was clad with three different colours of cladding adding an architectural “touch” to what otherwise could be simple design. Wide feature flashings added further interest and mirrored a detail found in adjacent buildings.

The building has dimensions of 44m x 27m with a height to eaves of 8.6m and features three 4.5m wide by 5m high vehicle doors.

Ref: 119062

REIDsteel champions south west

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 12:17:39 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd was among the business leaders to call for greater investment and support at a major regional business conference

He sat on a panel at the Great South West (GSW) event with Dorset Chamber at Bournemouth University (BU).

They championed the region but also identified issues for the Great South West to take to the government to help businesses in the region grow.

Key topics at the roadshow included skills development, infrastructure needs and sustainability initiatives.

Simon, who is a trustee of the Jobs Foundation and a non-executive director of Dorset Chamber, said: “The Great South West event with Dorset Chamber was a timely opportunity for businesses and organisations to fly the flag for the region and send clear messages to Westminster.

“It is important that our voice is heard in the corridors of power, especially amid all the noise surrounding a change of government.

“As well as skills development, infrastructure needs and sustainability, other key concerns include access to finance and employment regulation.

“According to latest figures from the House of Commons library, SMEs represent more than 99% of the business population in the UK. There are 5.51 million SMEs nationwide with 519,000 of them in the South West.

“The Exchequer’s tax take and funding of public services is entirely reliant on the revenues, wealth and salaries generated by business, including these SMEs.

“I hope the new government listens to the voice of business in our region and those in other parts of the country and delivers the support required to help us grow the economy, increase the tax take and bolster the strength of UK plc.”

The government funded Great South West Pan-Regional Partnership is holding four roadshows across the south west.

It joined forces with Dorset Chamber – the county’s leading business support organisation for the event.

The conference brought together business leaders, investors, and councils to spotlight the region’s business community.

Delegates also included Cecilia Bufton, Chair of Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and GSW Board Member, BCP Council Chief Executive Graham Farrant, Dorset Chamber Chief Executive Ian Girling, BU Head of External Engagement Ian Jones, Dorset Council chief executive Matt Prosser, Intergage Group Chief Executive Paul Tansey and GSW chair Karl Tucker.

Ian Girling, Chief Executive of Dorset Chamber and Dorset LEP Board Member, said: “This event was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the innovative spirit and resilience of Dorset’s business community.

“By coming together, we’re sending a clear message to Westminster about the untapped potential in our region.

“The South West is ready for significant investment and growth, and events like this help ensure our voice is heard at the highest levels of government.”

Karl Tucker, Chair of the Great South West Partnership, said: “The Dorset Regional Roadshow demonstrated the huge potential and ambition of our business community.

“The insights shared will be essential in shaping our voice with the new Government, ensuring that the South West is heard loud and clear in Westminster.

“It’s clear that with the right investment and support, our region can play a pivotal role in driving the UK’s economic growth.”

The Great South West is holding events and activities throughout 2024, including regional roadshows, economic and sector insight reports, Westminster events, and a major national conference in September.

REIDsteel designs, manufactures and builds steel structures across UK, Europe and the world.

Dorset Chamber is the county’s voice of business and its leading business support organisation.

The Jobs Foundation is a charity that promotes British businesses and social mobility. It believes that business is a ‘Force for Good’. (Pictures: Program and Ahmed Goga, Great South West director)

REIDsteel forges the next generation

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:42:16 GMT

“We believe it is important to support our local community and schools, whilst also building relationships to encourage the next generation to think of the diverse and rewarding careers on offer with REIDsteel.

“It was a pleasure to host Milo and Tyler, who were a credit to themselves and their school.”

Tyler was based in production, where he spent time in the pre-fabrication, sheet metal, glazing and fabrication workshops. Tyler also worked in the yard and had a chance to try his hand at welding.

He said: “I know what a variety of jobs options there are within the industry now and I’m pretty sure that it’s something I want to pursue for the future.”

Milo, who was based in design, said: “My favourite part was learning so many things. I was able to take away an understanding of what it’s like to be in a work environment.”

REIDsteel, with a 120-strong workforce, has built strong links with local schools over many years.

It regularly attends the annual Careers and Apprenticeship Show at Bournemouth International Centre .

Donna visited the Twynham School recently to conduct mock interviews with Year 10 students.

REIDsteel is one of the sponsors of the Twynham Learning Festival of Education on June 29 at the school from 10.30am to 2.30pm. Visitors will be able to try their hand at virtual welding on the firm’s stand.

REIDsteel, which has a ‘one team’ ethos to emphasise the value it places on every employee, has also backed a new WorkEx Directory launched by Dorset Careers Hub and Dorset Chamber to reinvent work experience.

It is one of the first companies to sign up to the initiative which aims to increase the range and number of work experience opportunities for young people.

A directory of participating businesses will be published in September 2024 and be available for schools.

Business can offer a range of experiences. These could include virtual work experience, site tours, taster days, two or three day experiences, one or two week placements, or an extended placement, such as an afternoon a week.

REIDsteel currently has a number of career opportunities on offer. They include Quantity Surveyor, Cladding Draughtsperson, Steel Erector, Structural Engineer, Trainee Production Operative, Yard Operative and Production Administrator.

REIDsteel, founded in 1919, designs, manufactures and erects all types of steel framed structures including cladding, glazing, roofing and doors. It has exported to more 140 countries to date.

The company is a Platinum Business Partner of Dorset Chamber.

Beacon lights up D-Day commemorations

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 15:27:02 GMT

Dorset was instrumental in supporting the D-Day landings, with thousands of troops leaving from the the county’s ports and harbours for the beaches of Normandy.

Christchurch hosted the United States Army Air Forces Ninth Air Force who were located in the town in 1944 while RAF Hurn – now Bournemouth Airport – served as a base for bombers and fighter-bombers supporting D-Day .

REIDsteel is proud to have supported this event. It also supports many other communities initiatives, including Premier League side AFC Bournemouth ‘s Premier League Kicks coaching initiative for youngsters.

The company is also a Platinum Business Partner at Dorset Chamber .

REIDsteel gains Cyber Essentials status

Thu, 30 May 2024 08:59:48 GMT

REIDsteel has achieved Cyber Essentials certification for its robust IT processes and safeguarding of sensitive data.

Cyber Essentials is a government backed and industry supported scheme to help businesses and organisations put best practice cybersecurity measures in place.

According to latest figures published in April by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, just three per cent of business and charities report adhering to Cyber Essentials.

Nick Wright, REIDsteel Head of IT, said: “Applying for Cyber Essentials certification was an ideal opportunity to have a fresh look at our security processes and security settings."

“I am very pleased that, with a very few minor modifications in process, we were able to achieve the certification. Our aim will be continued improvements throughout the year with the aim of achieving the Cyber Essentials Plus next year.”

Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates our commitment to IT excellence for our customers, staff, suppliers and business associates.

It will also open up the path to new business and contracts which involve handling sensitive information or the provision of certain products and services.

Emily Cowls, from our business development team and deals with a lot of the pre-qualification assessments that our clients have in place, said:

“The Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates that we have reached or exceeded the quality standard required by our customers for managing and keeping their data as safe as we can and tells them that we have robust security processes and policies in place that meet the current industry standards. Especially in such a fast moving field.”

This important accreditation shows industry what we have in place; it will sit in and comply with the Common Assessment Standards (CAS) that many of our customers require.

Without the CAS Emily would have a whole bunch of other forms to fill in; it simplifies access to accreditations.

Certification is a benchmark for quality standards and many companies like us go far beyond the minimum standards.

Through the British Constructional Steelwork Association, we already meet the government-backed Common Assessment Standard (CAS) developed by Build UK and endorsed by the Construction Leadership Council.

It is a unified platform for use by UK main contractors, with an industry-agreed question set and assessment standards for the pre-qualification of suppliers.

Join us at the Jobs Foundation

Fri, 10 May 2024 09:50:23 GMT

REIDsteel was one of the first members of the Jobs Foundation when it launched last year.

Our Managing Director Simon Boyd is one of its trustees while our Quality, Health, Safety and Environment Manager Jo White featured on the foundation’s website and in its launch video.

The independent charity champions business as a force for good in society. It seeks to highlight the vital contribution that business makes in terms of creating jobs, providing training and funding public services and, in turn, ensure that Britain has a policy environment which allows business to thrive, so they can be an even more effective tool in alleviating poverty and boosting economic growth.

Key to its success will be developing its Business Council – a coalition of business leaders who share its ambitions for promoting the good that business does.

It already has nearly 300 members spanning global corporates to local SMEs, with a target to expand this to more than a thousand members by the end of 2024, representing all nations and regions of the country, large and small businesses, and an array of industries and sectors.

The foundation is very much in its growth stages, and it would be great to have more members of the business council. Membership is free, voluntary and private, and comes with no formal obligations or requirements.

Please visit the Jobs Foundation website for more details. You can also get in touch with Jamie Booth at the Jobs Foundation for more information and to sign up.

Contact him on LinkedIn or email jamie@thejobsfoundation.com .

Reidsteel News

Bombardier Aircraft Hangar - UK

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 11:23:58 GMT

Award winning twin cantilever design

Completed in early 2022, this dual cantilever hangar at Biggin Hill Airport, UK was built in conjunction with the main contractor Civils Contracting Ltd (Civils).

It is the largest cantilever roofed hangar to be built in the UK for more than 50 years. The complex cantilever design allows the roofs to safely span the hangar without support from any internal columns, creating a vast floor space capable of housing up to 14 business jets at any one time.

This is one of our most technically challenging hangars yet. With a 165m long central core supporting two 45m cantilever roofs, it is the UK’s second largest after a 46.5m cantilever hangar built at RAF Brize Norton in 1967.”

As a modern hangar, the Bombardier building is designed to be incredibly

robust against unforeseen events and has been thoroughly checked

against our own full-scale testing.” Wind loads were checked with codes

of practise, against our own full-scale testing and computational fluid

dynamics to ensure that even with the doors fully open the hangar will

remain within tight deflection tolerances.

The roof features an underslung crane, requiring even tighter deflection tolerances than those needed for the 165m long rolling hangar doors each side.

We worked closely with Civils and the client to keep costs down and

shape the structure to be as efficient as possible for manufacturing and

design.

As well as a state-of-the-art hangar, the development also comprises

of a workshop, and office space and 650,000 sq. ft of apron area and

surrounds. It used 1600 tonnes of steel and 300,000 sq ft of cladding.

REIDsteel provided conceptual and detailed design, fabrication and

erection of both the steel frame and the full building envelope including

cladding, windows, doors, decking and vents.

In 2022 we entered the hangar in the Structural Steel Design Awards and

were delighted to win the top award in our section.

All at REIDsteel are absolutely thrilled to win this prestigious award.

The SSDAs are a hallmark of excellence as the foremast awards in our

industry and act as a real showcase for the exceptional capabilities of

British design, engineering, manufacturing and construction.

Our success is down to the whole team at REIDsteel and is a testament

to the talent and commitment of every single person in the business

without whom this award would not have been possible.

Our ‘one team’ ethos also extended to Civils Contracting, London Biggin

Hill Airport and Bombardier.

We are proud to have worked so closely together and to see this

landmark project win the recognition it so richly deserves.

Simon Boyd , Managing Director

Ref: 118773-G61

Agents fly in for global gathering

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:48:34 GMT

Agents jetted in from around the world for a special summit held by REIDsteel in Dorset.

We welcomed representatives to our Agents Day conference at the Captain’s Club Hotel in Christchurch .

The event included an overview of our business and successes in the design, manufacture and supply of structures in 140 countries worldwide as well as our exciting plans for the future growth of the business.

Presentations covered such subject matter as our capabilities, design expertise, wide range of structures, case studies, finance, compliance and the great support we offer our agents.

There were presentations, a panel discussion, an open forum for feedback and a Q&A session as well as welcome drinks, refreshments and an informal evening dinner at the Boathouse Restaurant at Christchurch Quay.

The event was a great success and an excellent way for us to update our agents and for them to meet each other.

There were plenty of positive interactions and suggestions during the day, which everyone enjoyed, followed by the evening meal.

The day was hosted by Tim Outteridge , with all members of the sales team presenting different aspects of our business and our plans for the future, as well as a look back to some of the fantastic achievements over the many decades of working in the global arena.

Please get in touch to find our more about the benefits of working with REIDsteel as an agent either in the UK or worldwide.

Email sales@reidsteel.co.uk in the first instance.

Fantastic opportunities to join our brilliant team

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:24:41 GMT

We have a number of opportunities to join our brilliant team at REIDsteel. They cover a range of positions:

Quantity Surveyor
Cladding Draughtsperson
Estimating Bid Manager
Glazing Sales Estimator
Accounts Payable Assistant
Steel Erectors

We can offer a competitive remuneration package, opportunities for growth and development, and a supportive team environment.

The friendly and professional workforce at our multi-award-winning business design, manufacture and erect award-winning structures worldwide.

We have a ‘one team’ ethos where every person is valued and encouraged to fulfil their potential. Our company is led by a progressive and diverse senior team.

We are a Dorset Chamber platinum business partner, a member of the Jobs Foundation and a member and strong voice within the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA). We were the first steelwork contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter.

Our recent award successes have included G lobal Business of the Year at the 2023 Dorset Business Awards and the prestigious Structural Steel Design Award s for a super-hangar at Biggin Hill Airport. We also have four Queen’s Awards for international trade.

Email hr@reidsteel.co.uk for the job description and more details.

On the ball with AFC Bournemouth

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 16:26:50 GMT

Premier League Kicks session with REIDsteel

AFC Bournemouth were pleased to deliver a unique Premier League Kicks session with REIDsteel in Christchurch.

French midfielder Romain Faivre , picture far right in the photograph, and assistant first team coach Steve Fletcher took part in the session and spent time with youngsters participating.

Our operations director Donna Campo and buyer Naomi Bodman watched the action unfold at Mudeford Wood Community Centre.

The Premier League Kicks project with AFC Bournemouth offers free football and additional opportunities to more than 1,000 young people locally every year.

Donna told afcbTV : “It’s really important for us to give back.

“We’ve been at our home in Christchurch for over 50 years and, although we export all around the world, our base is still really important to us.

“We have employees that live locally and others that have grown up here so it’s really important that we do something in this area. We’re really proud to play our part in the success of the sessions.”

Naomi added: “It’s really great that we are able to put these sessions on specifically in the Christchurch area, and provide that opportunity for local young people.

“It’s really good to see them running around, girls and boys, getting the fresh air.”

Since the initiative was launched in 2006, more than half a million young people have benefited on a national level with Premier League Kicks.

Steve Cuss, head of community at AFC Bournemouth, said: “REIDsteel are a really strong partner for us and allow us to continue our Premier League Kicks sessions.

“Premier League Kicks is really important in getting youngsters out at the weekend and in the evenings so we are really grateful to them.”

Sessions take place at Mudeford Wood Community Centre on a Wednesday between 4pm and 5pm for ages 8-10, and between 5pm and 6pm for ages 11-14.

There is no pre-registration needed for any of the sessions, as they all operate on a turn-up-and-play basis.

(Picture: AFC Bournemouth)

Shepperton Studios Workshops - UK

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:24:04 GMT

Project presented an array of significant challenges

We were appointed to build five workshops at Shepperton Studios as part of their wider efforts to add over 548,000 sq ft of workshop space, as well as 31 purpose built sound stages in order to increase their production capacity.

Workshop info:

Workshop 1.01 - 60m x 25m with a height to eaves of 7m
Workshop 1.04 - 69m x 33m with a height to eaves of 7m
Workshop 1.07 - 90m x 25m with a height to eaves of 7m
Workshop 1.09 - 70m x 52m with a height to eaves of 7m
Workshop 2.03 - 95m x 52m with a height to eaves of 8m
(Workshops 1.04 and 2.03 included mezzanine floors).

This project presented an array of significant challenges, necessitating seamless collaboration among all parties involved. These challenges included navigating complex design requirements, adhering to stringent sustainability standards, and ensuring the flexibility and functionality of the workshop buildings.

From the outset, our team worked closely with the architect and consulting engineer to address these challenges head-on, designing and constructing buildings that not only met the tenant's requirements but also offered the operator the flexibility needed for the next 50 years.

The primary objectives were to ensure that all buildings achieved improved BREEAM and Part L standards, and to incorporate features that supported long-term sustainability and efficiency. This included designing workshops to accommodate PV panels, enhancing thermal and acoustic insulation, and integrating translucent roof panels to reduce electrical consumption and take advantage of natural sunlight.

Our team took a comprehensive approach, conducting extensive thermal and operational studies to find a comfortable long-term balance. The workshops were designed to be functional while also representing the combination of our strong experience, high skill levels, and the use of top-end quality materials.

We are proud of our involvement in this project and extend our congratulations and thanks to the Pinewood and Laing O Rourke teams for their trust and professionalism. Our previous experience with Pinewood on another extension project allowed us to support the main contractor with confidence.

By overseeing all superstructure components like steel, cladding, and glazing, we ensured consistency in design, making it easier for the main contractor to approve and manage the project.

Our collaborative efforts resulted in a successful and innovative film production facility that meets long-term operational needs.

Ref: 118930-35

Simon has the answers on Any Questions

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 12:48:21 GMT

Our managing director Simon Boyd was on the panel for the latest broadcast of the BBC’s Any Questions programme on Radio 4.

He joined Financial Secretary to the Treasury Nigel Huddleston MP , the Shadow Minister for Industry and Decarbonisation Sarah Jones MP and the Financial Times columnist and economist Soumaya Keynes for the political show.

They took questions on subjects including the Budget, International Women’s Day, Gaza and the general election during the live broadcast from the Mowlem Theatre in Swanage, hosted by BBC political correspondent Alex Forsyth .

It was Simon’s second time on the show after an appearance in 2017.

Alex Forsyth is pictured seated with, from left, Nigel Huddleston, Sarah Jones, Simon Boyd and Soumaya Keynes.

Join us at careers and apprenticeship fair

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 11:26:55 GMT

Visit our stand at the Careers and Apprenticeship Show at Bournemouth International Centre on Thursday March 14.

Our friendly team will be on hand be able to tell you about the exciting jobs and career opportunities on offer across a wide range of departments at REIDsteel – including trainee, apprentice and graduate roles in design, fabrication, project management, construction and more.

We will be among nearly 100 employers at the CAS 2024 event, which is set to attract more than 3,000 young people and 1,600 adults, parents, teachers, carers and guardians.

The day runs from 9am to 3pm before the evening session start at 4pm and runs until 7pm.

We’re looking forward to a great day telling young people about the rewarding careers we have on offer as well as our ‘one team’ ethos which values every individual, who together make up the company.

Many thanks to the organisers and sponsors including Helen Lewis from BCP Council .

We are hiring!

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:12:34 GMT

Hiring now – We have exciting opportunities in our team with vacancies in a variety of roles within our multi-award-winning business.

You will join our friendly and professional workforce in the design, manufacture and construction of award-winning structures worldwide.

These positions are:

Project manager
Estimating bid manager
Steel erector
Steel detailer
CNC operator

The estimating bid manager role involves preparing sales estimates, proposals and bids for design and build and pre-design projects. You will:

Work collaboratively with the wider team to generate competitive bids
Work closely with customers, business development and project managers to see bids through to fruition

Previous experience of estimating in steel and/or cladding sectors is essential. Applications would also be welcomed from graduates with a relevant design, technical or QS degree, looking to begin a career in estimating/bid management.

For our steel erector roles, we have experienced and trainee positions on offer.

At REIDsteel, we have a ‘one team’ ethos where every person is valued and encouraged to fulfil their potential. Our company is led by a progressive and diverse senior team.

We are a Dorset Chamber platinum business partner, a member of the Jobs Foundation and a member and strong voice within the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA).

We were the first steelwork contractor to sign the UK Steel Charter.

Email hr@reidsteel.co.uk for more details about joining our team.

Calls for action as steelwork sector launches industry ‘manifesto’

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 14:21:12 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has called for greater financial backing for the structural steel sector at a manifesto launch at Parliament.

Simon demanded government deal with the difficulties businesses face in seeking access to finance at the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) event in London.

The BCSA, which is the trade body for UK and Irish steelwork contractors and its wider supply chain, held the summit at the House of Lords to set out five key measures vital to sustain and promote its members and the industry.

The UK constructional steelwork sector is worth approximately £1.6 billion per year and employs around 60,000 people.

Simon was among the speakers urging politicians to take action.

He said: “The focus of government over financial institutions and big businesses needs to be adjusted to see the potential for UK plc through the many SMEs who provide most of the employment in this country.

“We need government to facilitate access to finance so that we can vastly improve our productivity and the pay packet of our people.

“This could be done by government making regulatory changes to the banking world or by giving the British Business Bank or LEPs the financial firepower to provide appropriate loans direct to SMEs.”

He added: “As the Jobs Foundation states, business is a force for good, it lifts people out of poverty, enables social mobility and creates the wealth that allows government to pay for the services our country needs.”

The BCSA’s manifesto launch came as political parties begin to formulise policies for the general election later this year.

Its five measures are:

End cash retentions
Public project procurement
Fit for purpose apprenticeships to meet the growing skills gap
Access to finance to innovate
Support for the steelmakers – UK first

Dr David Moore, CEO of the BCSA, said, “The UK steelwork sector is, literally and figuratively, an economic building block. It is both the fabric of our growth and development, and has the potential to be a booming industry creating jobs, boosting GDP and delivering opportunity.

“The industry does not operate in a vacuum and there are simple measures that our politicians could take, which would be a real shot in the arm for our sector.

“It is our hope that a future government, of whatever political persuasion they may be, will recognise both the value and potential of the constructional steelwork industry and take the action we need to flourish and grow.”

REIDsteel, which employs more than 130 people, designs, manufactures and builds steel structures of all kinds, including bridges, hangars, stadia and commercial structures. It has exported to more than 140 countries to date in 105 years of trading.

It has multi-million pound plans for the redevelopment of its facility in Christchurch, Dorset, which have the potential to deliver a 300% increase in productivity over five years delivering a 10% to 15% return on investment for the exchequer through increased tax take.

Mr Boyd reminded government that it is businesses like REIDsteel which create employment, enable social mobility and pay the taxes that government needs to spend on services.

He said: “Give us the access to finance we need and we will improve productivity and level up.”

Mr Boyd is a longstanding champion of the structural steel sector and SMEs, and has campaigned on important issues such as Brexit and poorly thought out directives and regulations.

BCSA manifesto in full:

1. End cash retentions

Cash retentions are monies held in case of a building defect. Sometimes these are not released until the end of the project, which could be years from when our members completed their element of the job.
They stifle cashflow for companies who could be investing in growth, increasing outputs and contributing further to the economy.
Retentions damage smaller businesses in the supply chain.
Ensure all rules are followed and project bank accounts are used on all public projects.

2. Public project procurement

Ensure UK companies are prioritised on all public funded contracts such as HS2, which will spur the economy and boost national social value chains.
Ensure social value assessments in the procurement process are cascaded down the entire supply chain, not just tier one contractors.
Ensure the Government Procurement Policy is monitored throughout the supply chain.

3. Fit for purpose apprenticeships to meet the growing skills gap

Jobs in the constructional steelwork industry are relatively highly paid but relatively low-skilled. Further education colleges and apprenticeship providers are given a perverse financial incentive to prioritise level 3 over level 2 apprenticeships, even though there is more demand for the former.
Work with the industry to develop a fit for purpose apprenticeship scheme, which is appropriately funded.

4. Access to finance to innovate

For the UK Government to see an increase in productivity, companies need access to finance, to enable investment in the latest technology, manufacturing equipment and techniques.
Encourage Government Departments and financial institutions to support steelwork contracting companies so that they can deliver the increase in productivity we need.

5. Support for the steelmakers – UK first

Without Government support for steelmakers to decarbonise and invest in decarbonisation technologies, more steel will have to be procured from overseas to meet net-zero commitments.
Commitment to extend the national grid to provide the power for electric arc furnaces in the UK.

REIDsteel named among top companies

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 14:37:46 GMT

John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd has been recognised as one the top performing businesses in the South of England.

We’ve been named in the prestigious Solent 250 listing of privately-owned, independent businesses with the highest turnover in the region.

The Business Magazine has complied the annual table with sponsorship from HSBC UK , CMA Recruitment Group , property experts Vail Williams , law firm BDB Pitmans , Evelyn Partners and the  University of Southampton Business School .

Our inclusion once again is testament to talents and commitment of all at REIDsteel who work so hard under our ‘one team’ ethos to make the business the success it is.

Merlin Entertainments topped the Solent 250 this year followed by Utilita , Hendy Group , Lush Cosmetics and Arqiva .

Cumulatively, the companies in the Solent 250 have an annual turnover of £21.2 billion. Together they employ 130,000 people.

The latest recognition follows our success in winning the Global Business Award in 2023 Dorset Business Awards and the top award at the 2022 Structural Steel Design Awards .

Simon back on board

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 14:44:47 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has been re-elected as a non-executive director of Dorset Chamber .

Simon was voted back onto the board at the chamber’s 2023 annual meeting.

Simon, pictured with Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling, first joined the board in March 2019 and acts on a voluntary basis as a non-executive director alongside his role as REIDsteel managing director and his many other commitments.

REIDsteel is also a Platinum Business Partner of the chamber, which is Dorset’s leading business support organisation and the county’s voice of business.

REIDsteel has the community at its heart and is proud to support its local chamber and help it drive forward the economy. The chamber’s mission statement is ‘enabling better lives through business’ – a value also reflected in our membership of the Jobs Foundation and its ethos that ‘business is a force for good’.

Dorset is one of the leading chambers in the south west of England and the only one in the county accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce .

It has led the way nationally on such initiatives as wellbeing, menopause awareness and mental health support. The chamber has more five-star Google reviews than any other in the country.

The chamber was also named as one of the top five chambers by the BCC in its annual awards this year.

Also at the annual meeting Tony Brown, managing director of Ferndown-based Y-not-Finance, was elected as the new president and Gareth Sherwood, who is chief executive of Bournemouth YMCA, became vice-president.

Helen Stacey, who is managing director of Aspire Jobs, was appointed as the chair of the Dorset Chamber Ambassadors and joined the board of directors.

On top of the world with award

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 16:46:59 GMT

Our success is down to the whole team

A ‘super-hangar’ built by REIDsteel (John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd) at London Biggin Hill Airport has won a prestigious national award for design excellence.

The cutting-edge development – the largest and most advanced dual cantilever hangar in the UK today – claimed top honours in the 2022 Structural Steel Design Awards (SSDA).

Dorset-based REIDsteel provided the design, drawing, fabrication and installation of the complete steel frame, electrically operated hangar doors and underslung cranes as well as the floor decking, cladding and glazing elements.

It worked with main contractor, Tonbridge-based Civils Contracting Ltd , on the maintenance hangar for occupation by global aerospace giant Bombardier .

A delegation from REIDsteel – selected from all areas of the business – attended the awards ceremony in Spitalfields in London.

Simon Boyd, managing director of REIDsteel, said: “All at REIDsteel are absolutely thrilled to win this prestigious award.

“The SSDAs are a hallmark of excellence as the foremast awards in our industry and act as a real showcase for the exceptional capabilities of British design, engineering, manufacturing and construction.

“Our success is down to the whole team at REIDsteel and is a testament to the talent and commitment of every single person in the business without whom this award would not have been possible.”

Simon added: “Our ‘one team’ ethos also extended to Civils Contracting, London Biggin Hill Airport and Bombardier.

“We are proud to have worked to closely together and to see this landmark project win the recognition it so richly deserves.”

The super-hangar received an Award in the competition, which is the top accolade followed by a Commendation and then a Merit.

It was one of just five Award winners out of 21 finalists shortlisted from entries nationwide in the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) organised contest.

REIDsteel was the only company to perform both the structural design and steelwork fabrication for an Award-winning project.

Although REIDsteel has won numerous industry and business awards, including four Queen’s Awards for International Trade, it is first time the company has won the coveted SSDA Award.

The super-hangar is REIDsteel’s 11th at the airport and will be used by Bombardier for the maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft. It includes offices and a VIP lounge.

Its 45m cantilever trusses allow the hangar to have two 160m clear span entrances and two vast floor spaces unobstructed by supporting columns of 77,500 sq ft (7,200 sq m) each.

REIDsteel’s entry impressed judges with its innovative design and value engineering which created significant reductions in steel use and its embodied carbon content compared with alternatives, as well as its elegant facade.

The other Award winners were 1 Triton Square in London, Esperance Bridge at Kings Cross in London, Tower of Light in London and Lord Cricket Ground redevelopment.

REIDsteel designs, engineers, manufactures and erects steel-framed structures of all kinds plus cladding, glazing and doors. It provides a ‘conception to completion service’ as well as value-engineering to find the most cost-effective solutions for a project.

Its portfolio includes aircraft hangars, bridges, sports stadia, and industrial and commercial buildings across the UK, Europe and the world, alongside its special projects – which include hurricane and earthquake resistant structures, car parks, defence structures, water treatment plants, the power sector, infrastructure, specialist bridges and bespoke design.

Achieving Gold Standard

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:52:49 GMT

We’re proud to have gained a gold award in the British Constructional Steelwork Association’s (BCSA) Steel Construction Sustainability Charter.

The charter is about advancing steel as a sustainable form of construction, regarding social progress, environmental responsibility and carbon reduction.

Gaining the new gold accreditation involved a great deal of work, including the creation of new policies, record-keeping of carbon data and consideration of our overall environmental performance.

We also looked at future milestones to work towards for electricity, water, waste and travel.

Being aware of, and finding ways of reducing, our carbon footprint is not only good for the environment but will also become an important part of some client requirements when bidding for jobs.

Plans for our n ew cutting-edge manufacturing facility , staff welfare centre and offices at our headquarters in Christchurch, Dorset, also have sustainability built into them to help hit our net zero targets.

The manufacturing facility will feature rooftop solar PV panels which will be able to generate enough electricity at peak times to power the entire factory.

Other key features include switching to electric-powered forklifts, investment in energy-efficient technology and machinery, high-specification buildings allowing an end to gas and oil as a source for heat, reduction of HGV traffic and an enhanced travel plan.

We will also be able to fabricate more steelwork rather than subcontract at peak times, reducing road miles and saving energy.

T5 Cruise Terminal - Southampton

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 14:45:54 GMT

Can handle an impressive 6,000 passengers per day

The iconic Horizon cruise terminal is the first of a new generation of new buildings of its kind.

REIDsteel provided conceptual design, structural design/detailing, fabrication and erection services for the landmark project with products supplied by British Steel.

An extensive value engineering exercise during the tender stage meant peak foundation reactions could be reduced by a factor of 10, saving both time and significant amounts of money for the client.

Extending over 11,000 sq ft, Horizon – the UK’s first cruise terminal with plug-in shoreside power – can handle an impressive 6,000 passengers per day!

REIDsteel hits the heights with Solent 250

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 16:02:18 GMT

John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd has won new recognition as one of the top performing businesses in the South.

We’ve been included in the prestigious Solent 250 listing of privately-owned, independent businesses with the highest turnover in the region.

We rub shoulders with such names as Sunseeker, Fat Face. Southampton FC, Trant, AFC Bournemouth and Wightlink in the ratings.

The Business Magazine has published the Solent 250 rankings with CMA Recruitment Group , HSBC UK, Irwin Mitchell , RSM , Vail Williams , the University of Southampton Business School .

We’ve risen 80 places to number 152 in this year’s listings, which is testament to the ‘one team’ ethos of all at REIDsteel who together work so hard to make the business the success it is.

Smart energy experts Utilita of Chandlers Ford topped the table, followed by the Hendy Group and Arqiva.

This latest recognition comes hot on the heels of our success in the Structural Steel Design Awards – making it a brilliant month for everyone at REIDsteel.

REIDsteel among firms coming together to show business is force for good

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:00:01 GMT

John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd has thrown its weight behind a gamechanging new initiative to combat poverty and boost employment and social mobility.

The Dorset firm – known as REIDsteel – has become one of the first members of the Jobs Foundation , which is uniting industry leaders and entrepreneurs nationwide.

Managing director Simon Boyd has become a trustee of the independent charity. Quality, Health, Safety and Environment manager Jo White features on the foundation’s website and in its launch video .

Businesses are the most effective creator of jobs and social mobility, according to the foundation.

It will help firms to learn from each other to do even more in their local communities to relieve poverty and unemployment.

The foundation is headed by an advisory council of business leaders from a range of sectors, locations and sizes, all uniting behind the message that a successful society requires successful businesses.

Simon Boyd, managing director at 130-strong REIDsteel, said: “Business is a force for good.

“It makes an incredibly positive contribution to our society. Business provides jobs, drives the economy and funds our country’s vital public services through its taxes and those of its employees.

“I’m a firm believer in social mobility. In any business, the people are the company. Helping hem to fulfil their potential can only be good for them and our company.

“We are proud to support the Jobs Foundation in its mission to help alleviate poverty and unemployment while creating greater social mobility and delivering benefits for business, society and the economy.”

The Jobs Foundation has begun building a movement of business leaders across the country, all committed to helping people most in need.

Members will be provided with the tools and practical support to find and train people in poverty within their local community.

Georgiana Bristol, chief executive of the Jobs Foundation, said: “The biggest and most effective engine to tackle poverty is the business community.

“By creating the jobs which take people out of poverty, offering training to help people fulfil their potential, and funding public sector jobs through taxation, businesses offer an economic and social infrastructure for the country and help reduce poverty.”

Research carried out by the Social Metrics Commission (2020) found that securing a full-time salaried job reduces the risk of falling into poverty by 90%, and unemployment raises the risk of poverty eightfold.

The Jobs Foundation does not believe in a one size fits all, top-down approach to helping those in poverty.

It is planning to spend the coming year identifying companies that have excelled at helping people from disadvantaged backgrounds so other companies can learn from this best practice, and will study specific regional needs so it can prioritise areas most in need and offer targeted support.

Matthew Elliott, president of the Jobs Foundation, said: “We hope to recruit 500 business leaders to our movement by the end of 2023 and 1,000 by the end of 2024.

“Business leaders are already superstars in the fight against poverty, but working together they can do even more to help people in need.

“It’s a mission that connects people of all political hues and none and I hope the business community will rally behind it.”

REIDsteel has a ‘one team’ ethos which means that every employee is valued.

QHSE manager Jo began working for REIDsteel as maternity cover in an administrative role.

She found that she loved the company, and wanted to train in health and safety management.

Simon mentored Joanne and the company funded her professional qualification. Now she plays a key role at REIDsteel, working with construction site and workshop staff to ensure everyone stays safe.

REIDsteel designs, engineers, makes and constructs all kinds of steel structures and buildings worldwide.

The business remains family owned and has exported to more than 140 countries so far in 104 years of trading.

Heritage Bridge - Barbados

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 17:07:11 GMT

Hot dip galvanised to the highest specification

In February 2020, we were approached to design a bridge for a heritage railway extension. The project required a steel bridge to cross a tree filled avenue, with concept drawings provided for a Victorian-style structure using angle and channel sections.

The site was exposed to Eastern Trade winds, creating a salt-laden environment, so the steelwork had to be hot dip galvanised to the highest specification. Additionally, the bridge is situated in an ancient, wooded area so installation had to be carried out with minimal disruption to the local environment. To achieve this the bridge needed to fit specific dimensions: an overall length of 82.94m, a clear height of 12.06m (with an overall height of 13.63m), and an overall width of 4.6m.

After a period of development and fine-tuning, we designed, drew, manufactured, shipped, and erected the bridge to full expectations in the summer of 2024. The bridge has a heritage appearance, achieved with modern methods to make it look old.

The installation was particularly challenging as we had to minimise foliage cutback and lift the bridge into position between the trees.

The client expressed satisfaction, highlighting the bridge s importance to the heritage railway, saying, We are very pleased with the outcome, and it really is a key part of the success of the railway line.

This project showcases our commitment to delivering high-quality, bespoke solutions that meet our clients unique needs while preserving the environment.

Ref: 119058

Students get to grips with work experience

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Wed, 31 May 2023 14:24:14 GMT

Work experience students Edward and Ricardo gained valuable hands-on experience at REIDsteel – quite literally!

They got to grips with welding when they fabricated their own steel sections during a week spent with us.

The year 10 duo – from Twynham and The Grange schools in Christchurch – were the latest students to join us on placement.

They both expressed an interest in fabrication and spent the majority of their week in that area of the business.

The pictures show Edward and Ricardo above marking out sheet metal and trying their hand at welding as well as their finished work, below.

They were also given an overview of the other areas of the business as part of a bespoke placement programme to get a sense of the broad range of opportunities that we offer here.

We were really proud to be able to offer a meaningful, practical placement where Edward and Ricardo were able to try their hand at welding, following the appropriate risk assessments.

When asked if they had enjoyed themselves it was a resounding ‘yes’ from both of them. They said that it was ‘interesting’, ‘beneficial’ and great to learn new skills.

It was a pleasure to welcome Edward and Ricardo to REIDsteel to join our ‘one team’ for the week.

Many thanks go to the REIDsteel team members who took the time out of their day to enthusiastically support Edward and Ricardo on their placements.

We met Edward and Ricardo at one of the local careers fairs where we were able to talk to visitors about the wide range of opportunities at REIDsteel.

Anyone interested in a career at REIDsteel is encouraged to email hr@reidsteel.co.uk , give us a call or talk to us at a future careers fair.

Landmark agreement in REIDsteel redevelopment plans

Wed, 31 May 2023 14:10:58 GMT

British manufacturer John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Limited is today celebrating a major milestone in redevelopment plans for its site in Dorset.

The company – known as REIDsteel – has acquired a 2.2-acre plot immediately next to its existing headquarters in Christchurch.

Purchase of site, which was formerly occupied by Peeks Party Store and Monkey Madness soft play centre, will allow REIDsteel to move forward with plans to invest in a state-of-the-art manufacturing complex, new offices and staff facilities.

The redevelopment over a total of 6.4 acres will allow REIDsteel to considerably enhance its productivity and capabilities in the design, engineering, manufacture and supply of steel structures across the UK, Europe and the world.

It will provide a major boost for the local economy and supply chain as well as UK plc.

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd signed the deal with Nick Peek in Christchurch.

Simon said: “This is a major milestone in our redevelopment plans for the company.

“It is great news and represents major investment in our business, the local economy, the Christchurch community, and the county of Dorset.

“It will regenerate a vacant brownfield site in a key location within the town while allowing us to move forward with our exciting redevelopment plans.

“This will mean that we can significantly increase productivity and create more highly skilled employment and apprenticeships, while cutting our carbon footprint.”

Simon added: “The whole team at REIDsteel are excited about the acquisition and redevelopment of the site in the near future.

“My thanks to every single member of our team for their unwavering support over the past few years and to Nick Peek for the key role he played in supporting our bid to redevelop the site for the benefit of all stakeholders.

“Investment of this kind further reinforces our belief that business is a force for good. It is not just for the owners, but for our people, the local economy and community as well as for the national economy and HM Treasury.

“We are looking forward to announcing more details about our plans in due course.”

REIDsteel has gained full planning permission for the multi-million-pound-redevelopment, which will include a production yard, staff parking, environmental improvements and landscaping. It will also include rooftop solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.

Multiple manufacturing processes will be brought into a single, automated production line with cutting-edge technology from concept to delivery under one roof.

Founded in 1919, REIDsteel has more than 130 staff and has exported to more than 140 countries to date.

Its portfolio includes aircraft hangars, bridges, sports stadia, and industrial and commercial buildings across the UK, Europe and the world, including cladding and glazing, alongside its special projects – which include hurricane and earthquake resistant structures, car parks, defence structures, water treatment plants, the power sector, infrastructure, specialist bridges and bespoke designs.

REIDsteel has a one team ethos where every one of its employees is a valued team member. The company will continue with current operations on its site throughout the redevelopment process.

Peeks closed in March 2020, following which REIDsteel agreed a sale price, subject to planning consent and entered a leasing arrangement with the site stakeholders, John and Nick Peek, while planning permission was pending. Having finally agreed all the requirements, both parties were finally able to conclude the sale.

Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.

Premier League Kicks is a winner with REIDsteel

Wed, 24 May 2023 14:37:22 GMT

AFC Bournemouth duo Antoine Semenyo and Steve Fletcher were the star attractions at a special session of REIDsteel-sponsored Premier League Kicks in Christchurch.

Striker Semenyo and Cherries legend and first team coach Fletcher took part in the event at Mudeford Wood Community Centre.

The pair also conducted an enlightening question-and-answer session when Semenyo was asked about his maiden Premier League goal which came against Leeds.

Premier League Kicks offers free football and additional opportunities to more than 1,000 young people locally every year.

Sessions take place at Mudeford Wood Community Centre between 4pm and 5pm on Wednesdays for ages 8-10 and between 5pm and 6pm for ages 11-14. There is no pre-registration required as they all operate on a turn-up and play basis. Some 59 children have taken part since last October.

Donna Campo, operations director at REIDsteel, headed down to watch the session with colleagues Lisa Cherett, Lee Stevens and Peter Reid.

Donna said: “We have sponsored this campaign for the past season and a half, and we became involved because community is really at the heart of what we believe.

“Our factory has been on its site in Christchurch for the past 50-plus years. We were really keen to give an opportunity to young people locally to access football training sessions that they otherwise might not have been able to.

“We are keen to keep building our relationship with AFC Bournemouth. We have lots of supporters within the company so continuing that is a great opportunity for us.

“The Community Sports Trust has some wonderful initiatives and we’re really proud to be involved in this one, which certainly fits with our ethos and values as well.”

Donna added: “It was lovely to see the joy on the faces of all the young people at the session. It’s great that the initiative has been so successful in Christchurch.”

Semenyo, who signed for the Cherries from Bristol City in January, and Fletcher were joined at Mudeford Wood Community Centre by Steve Cuss and members of the AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust .

Steve said: “The Premier League Kicks project is one that’s really special to us.

“It enables a lot of youngsters to take part in recreational football, a first taste of football within an organised environment for many of them. We get lots of boys and girls turning up to enjoy their football.

“We try to have structure to the session. We have a fun warm-up and then we do some technical practice to try to improve the youngsters. We always have a game to finish which is always the highlight of the session.

“REIDsteel are a really strong partner of ours and they enable us to put on these sessions, so we are very grateful to them for their support.”

Coronation congratulations from REIDsteel

Fri, 05 May 2023 14:25:56 GMT

Simon Boyd, managing director of Christchurch-based REIDsteel, said: “Congratulations from REIDsteel to His Majesty King Charles III and Camilla, the Queen Consort, on their coronation.

“We wish you a long, successful, peaceful and happy reign as our monarch and head of the Commonwealth.

“British engineering and manufacturing has an excellent reputation on the world stage, where the monarch’s role as an international ambassador and champion of UK plc is absolutely vital.

“REIDsteel has been privileged to design, manufacture and construct steel structures at home and abroad under five monarchs dating back to George V in 1919.

“We are proud to continue flying the flag for British engineering and manufacturing under King Charles III’s reign. Long live the king!”

REIDsteel will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday.

Kumasi Airport Terminal - Ghana

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 11:38:51 GMT

Terminal to handle more than one million passengers a year.

We are extremely proud of our work on this project, the terminal has an

ultra-modern design and looks stunning. We were especially pleased

to be able to provide an innovative solution, including value engineering

to reduce the amount of steel used and create cost savings across the

whole structure.”

This 7000sq m terminal, including passenger and VIP lounges,

customs zones, departure gates, baggage handling, and security

facilities, is at the heart of the airport development and has the

capacity to service over one million passengers per year.

We designed, detailed, and fabricated not only the structural steel but

also the glazing elements of the job including the curtain walling and

doors.

The design was challenging as t he terminal has inclined main

stanchions, truss rafters, and internal mezzanine floors, as well this

we had to design support for two external air bridges.

We also had to consider the acoustic specifications required on the

inside of the terminal, so we provided double skin cladding with an

acoustic reduction, as well as designing an outside canopy.

More than 900 panes of glass were used, made to an extremely high

specification to achieve the requested pane sizes, withstand the

wind-loading, achieve the acoustic requirements that come with any

airport building and lastly but not least, with impressive solar control

to withstand the extreme sunlight and temperatures in the area. The

largest panes weighed over 300kg each.

Along with the aluminium and glass façades, we also provided eight

large glass roof-lights, each of which was 3m wide by 42m in length,

with the same acoustic and solar qualities of the glass façades.

Ref: 118673-G57

REIDsteel resigns membership of CBI

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 14:31:07 GMT

Structural steel firm John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd has resigned its membership of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) with immediate effect.

The company left the business lobbying group after further serious allegations emerged about misconduct.

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has also resigned his position as a founder member of the CBI’s manufacturing council.

REIDsteel – which employs 130 people – acted immediately, citing allegations of misconduct at the CBI as completely incompatible with its own company values.

Mr Boyd said: “It is wholly inconceivable that REIDsteel can continue any association with the CBI following the latest, incredibly serious allegations.

“We have taken the decision to resign our company’s corporate membership and my personal position on its manufacturing council with immediate effect.

“The latest allegations are deeply concerning and completely at odds with our company’s values and culture where respect and inclusivity are absolutely paramount.”

REIDsteel previously said that it was reserving judgement about its CBI membership pending further developments.

Simon added: “Our thoughts are with those at the centre of the latest allegations, and anyone who has been negatively impacted in any way with failings at the organisation.

“Our thoughts are also with the many hardworking personnel at the CBI who do work with integrity as well as member businesses who do not tolerate misbehaviour or a culture that allows misbehaviour to happen.

“It must be emphasised that the overwhelming majority of businesses in this country are reputable and responsible companies, which make a huge contribution to the UK’s economy, tax receipts and prosperity.”

The latest allegations, reported in the Guardian , surround a second allegation of rape. It also revealed details of a case where a female employee was stalked by a male colleague.

The CBI represents 190,000 businesses. The government has suspended engagement with the group while the law firm Fox Williams conducts an investigation.

REIDsteel employs 130 people from its head office and factory in Christchurch, Dorset. It designs, engineers, makes and constructs all kinds of steel structures and buildings worldwide.

The business – which has a ‘one team ethos’ – remains family owned and has exported to more than 140 countries so far in 104 years of trading.

REIDsteel statement Membership of the CBI

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:35:42 GMT

Simon Boyd, managing director of REIDsteel, said: “There have been some incredibly serious allegations about completely unacceptable behaviour at the CBI .

“It is shocking and of deep concern to us that such misconduct appears to have been allowed to happen over a number of years.

“There is absolutely no excuse for this type of behaviour at any organisation or business, whether in the City of London or elsewhere.

“It is emphatically at odds with what REIDsteel stands for as a company where values of respect and inclusivity for everyone are non-negotiable.

“Our initial reaction was to break all ties with the CBI, both in terms of our company membership and in my role as a founder member of its manufacturing council.

“However, we have been re-assured by the immediate and decisive action taken by the CBI’s president Brian McBride and its new director general Rain Newton-Smith. This has included a dismissal, suspension of employees and the launch of a root and branch review of its culture and governance.

“They have spoken to us and given us confidence that they are committed and able to tackle the very serious issues at hand. Had they not already taken firm action and given such assurances, we would have withdrawn our membership.

“For now we have been given enough encouragement to reserve judgement and see how the situation develops. I hope they are able to restore trust and confidence in the CBI while eliminating every trace of unacceptable behaviour and practices where it may exist within the organisation.”

Love where you work we do

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 15:41:37 GMT

We’re looking forward to taking part in the ‘Love Where you Work’ expo in Bournemouth this week.

We’ll be among the exhibitors at the event at the Hilton Hotel on Wednesday February 8 from 10am to 7pm.

It’s part of a trailblazing initiative by Bournemouth University with funding support from BCP Council to help local employers in their recruitment campaigns and to create more job opportunities for young talent in the area.

We will be among employers from six key sectors at the event who will be showcasing their companies, holding activities and giving an insight in what a typical day looks like.

There will also be a stand to take professional photographs of visitors that can be used on LinkedIn and other channels to help create a professional first impression.

The event follows BU-led research in the first part of the project which included interviews with employers about their recruitment challenges and alumni about their career paths and employment priorities.

The Love Where you Work expo aims to bring employers and prospective employees together to show why the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch area is an outstanding location in which to build a career.

Key sectors represented at the expo will include digital, construction, engineering and manufacturing, finance, health and social care, and retail, hospitality and leisure.

Members of our friendly team will be on hand to talk to you about why REIDsteel is such a great place to work, our ‘one team’ ethos and the wide range of career opportunities on offer. Please come and say hello.

And if you can’t make the event, please do visit the careers page of our website to see the great opportunities we have available or email us to find out more.

REIDsteel backs Premier League Kicks

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:47:28 GMT

REIDsteel has sponsored AFC Bournemouth’s Premier League Kicks project in Christchurch for the 2022/23 season.

The initiative offers free football and additional opportunities to over 1,000 young people in the local area every year.

The project is backed by a player ambassador from both the male and female team while staff of REIDsteel will have the opportunity to volunteer at sessions and support community coaches.

Rob Mitchell, commercial director at AFC Bournemouth, commented: “We are delighted that REIDsteel have agreed to sponsor our Premier League Kicks project this season.

“It highlights their commitment to support and enhance the local community, which is something AFC Bournemouth feels passionate about.

“The Premier League Kicks project has already had a massive impact within Christchurch and continues to allow youngsters the opportunity to play football and make new friends.”

Donna Campo, operations director at REIDsteel, said: “As a business with Christchurch at its heart for more than 50 years, we’re proud to support the Premier League Kicks campaign and enable young people in the town to enjoy these exciting sessions.

“AFC Bournemouth’s focus on the community fits perfectly with our own ‘one team’ ethos which places people first in a culture of respect, support, integrity, and collaborative working.

“Our team is delighted to support AFC Bournemouth’s team in this united effort to help local young people get active, gain a positive sense of wellbeing from an early age and most importantly, have fun.”

Open to local children, sessions take place on Wednesdays between 4pm and 5pm for 8-10 year olds and between 5pm and 6pm for 11-14 year olds.

There is no pre-registration needed for any of these sessions, which operate on a turn-up and play basis.

Visit the Community Sports Trust section of AFC Bournemouth’s website here to find out more and sign up to sessions.

Lift-off for award winning service centre

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 15:59:35 GMT

Congratulations to London Biggin Hill Airport and Bombardier on the official opening of their award-winning service centre.

Dignitaries performed the honours at the super-hangar, which is among the largest business jet maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities in the UK.

John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd worked with main contractor, Tonbridge-based Civils Contracting Ltd on the dual-cantilever hangar.

Our Pre-Construction Director Richard Hanson and Head of Technical John Harrison, pictured above, represented the company at the ceremony.

As well as a ribbon-cutting and presentations, the event included the opportunity to tour the hangar and its offices, look inside some of the private and business jets on show, and see a Spitfire at close quarters.

The inauguration of the super-hangar represents major expansion of Canadian aviation giant Bombardier’s presence at Biggin Hill where it is the airport’s largest tenant.

Its new service centre extends over 250,000 sq ft. Among its features are 22 service bays, capable of accommodating up to 14 Global 7500 aircraft at the same time as well as Bombardier’s newly launched Global 8000 business jet when it enters into service in 2025.

The expansion will bring the facility’s workforce to more than 250 employees, with the expectation to grow this number. It is also another milestone in Biggin Hill’s target of creating 2,300 high-quality, well-paid jobs by 2030.

The service centre claimed top honours in the prestigious Structural Steel Design Awards (SSDA) this Autumn.

It was one of just five Award winners out of 21 finalists in the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) organised contest.

REIDsteel was the only company to perform both the structural design and steelwork fabrication for an Award-winning project.

The hangar is REIDsteel’s 11 ^th at the airport.

Simon back on board at chamber

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 16:45:27 GMT

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd has been re-elected as a non-executive director of Dorset Chamber .

Simon was voted back onto the board at the chamber’s annual meeting, along with fellow directors and president Caron Khan , vice-president Tony Brown and new honorary treasurer Lesley Fox .

Simon first joined the board in March 2019 and acts on a voluntary basis as a non-exec director alongside his role as REIDsteel managing director and his many other commitments, including his membership of the Confederation of British Industry’s (CBI) manufacturing council.

REIDsteel is also a Platinum Business Partner of the chamber, which is Dorset’s leading business support organisation and the county’s voice of business. The company has also been a sponsor of the chamber-organised Dorset Business Awards.

REIDsteel has the community at its heart and is proud to support its local chamber and help it drive forward the economy.

Dorset is one of the leading chambers in the South West of England and the only one in the county accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce .

It has led the way nationally on such initiatives as wellbeing, menopause awareness and mental health support. The Chamber has more five-star Google reviews than any other in the country.

Simon is pictured far right, alongside fellow directors and Chamber chief executive Ian Girling , fourth from left.

Emma scoops top prize for excellence

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 16:51:10 GMT

Star student Emma Latham claimed a special award at her Bournemouth University graduation ceremony with Dorset structural steel firm REIDsteel.

Emma was among four mechanical engineering students to work with the Christchurch-based firm on a hangar doors project.

She received a Student Design Award for the excellence of her project report titled ‘Improving the safety of aircraft hangar doors with REIDsteel’.

Richard Hanson, REIDsteel’s Pre-Construction Director, presented Emma with her award certificate when she graduated with a BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering degree.

He said: “Congratulations to Emma on her graduation and for winning this richly deserved award.

“She, and her fellow mechanical engineering students, are a credit to themselves and Bournemouth University.

“All at REIDsteel have been impressed tremendously by their aptitude, enthusiasm, and commitment on the hangar doors project.

“We greatly value our links with Bournemouth University and wish Emma the very best for the future.”

REIDsteel – the trading name of John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd – is working with Bournemouth University on a new hangar door system to improve safety and useability. Mechanical engineering students used it as the topic for their final project.

Mr Hanson and Head of Technical John Harrison have been among the experts involved with students and the department of design and engineering. Dr Diogo Montalvao , head of the design and engineering department at Bournemouth University, was Emma’s final year project supervisor.

High-flyer Emma, aged 22, of Canterbury, Kent, is a founder and former president of the Bournemouth University Women in STEM Society.

She said: “It was a very special moment to receive the prize.

“A huge thank you to John Harrison, Richard Hanson and all at REIDsteel for the opportunity to work on the hangar doors topic for our final project.

“I am also grateful for all of the support and guidance offered by Dr Diogo Montalvao, head of the design and engineering department at Bournemouth University.”

REIDsteel has built strong links with education and the community, including sponsorship of Dorset Chamber’s Young Chamber initiative.

It recently attended the Dorset Engineering and Manufacturing Cluster’s Careers in Tomorrow’s Engineering event to inspire the next generation.

The 130-strong firm designs, engineers, manufactures and builds steel structures across the UK, Europe and the world, including their cladding, glazing and doors.

They range from footbridges in remote parts of Nepal and grain stores in Africa to government buildings in the Caribbean and a super hangar at Biggin Hill Airport which won a prestigious Structural Steel Design Award this autumn.

Destination Guyana for international trade mission

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 17:30:05 GMT

We’re on a business mission with the Caribbean Council to develop new links with Guyana .

Our Business Relationship Director Sean Burchell has joined a delegation to the South American country’s capital Georgetown.

The trip – held in partnership with the Department for International Trade and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry – aims to forge cross-Atlantic links and develop business opportunities.

Sean is pictured rubbing shoulders with the British High Commissioner Jane Miller and the President of Guyana Dr Irfaan Ali at a reception at the High Commissioner’s residence.

We’ve exported to more than 140 countries to date, including more than 400 buildings in the Caribbean where we started developing 50 years ago.

Our structures have survived the many hurricanes to strike the region, including the devastating storms of 2017 when all of our buildings remained standing.

The Co-operative Republic of Guyana is a former British colony on the northern coast of South America, between Venezuela and Suriname, with a population of nearly 800,000 people.

The Caribbean Council is a London-based membership organisation working to build beneficial relationships and two-way trade and investment between international companies and their Caribbean and Central American partners.

It has been a privilege to join the trade mission to explore business opportunities and ways to support economic development in the country.

Many thanks to the Caribbean Council, the GCCI and DIT for the opportunity to take part along with fellow delegates from BHM Co Ltd, Caribbean Trading Limited, Castlegate Education, Concrete Canvas, Crown Agents, DLT Solutions, Geest Line Limited, Ordnance Survey, Parker Plant Limited and Space Zero.

Inspiring future engineers

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 16:54:25 GMT

We are at a Careers in Engineering showcase on Thursday November 10 for Tomorrow’s Engineers Week.

Our friendly team will be on hand to talk about the wealth of opportunities and exciting career paths at REIDsteel.

The Dorset Engineering and Manufacturing Cluster event is being held at Curtiss-Wright Industrial Group on Aviation Park West, next to Bournemouth Airport, for Year 8 to 13 students and their parents.

It’s the culmination of a week of events and activities for Tomorrow’s Engineers Week to inspire the next generation.

Our engineers are behind a host of structures and projects worldwide from footbridges in remote parts of Nepal and grain stores in Africa to government buildings in the Caribbean and award-winning aircraft hangars in the UK.

We’re on STAND 11 – come and say hello, and find out more!

On course at first golf day

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 15:58:35 GMT

FORE! Players teed off at the first John Reid & Sons (Strucsteel) Ltd golf day.

They hit the greens and fairways of Christchurch Golf Club at Iford in the inaugural event.

Lee Stevens and Dave Claven triumphed as the winning team at the end of a great day’s play. Lee also bagged the honours for nearest shot to the pin while the longest drive went to Dave.

Perhaps, most importantly, the coveted prize for ‘best golf socks’ went to Steve Roberts, pictured above.

REIDsteel managing director Simon Boyd attended to the present the prizes – including to Steve for his winning Danger House themed socks! Simon is pictured below congratulating Steve.

The day was hugely enjoyed by all, and more are planned in due course. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you fancy joining in.

On top of the world with award

marketing@reidsteel.co.uk (Gary Christian) — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 16:08:43 GMT