ANYONE who is anyone in Gwent's employment and training sector turned out for the opening of Remploy's new factory and learning centre at Cwmtillery industrial estate last week.

The guest list was headed by Jane Davidson, Assembly minister for education and lifelong learning.

Remploy has had a presence in Abertillery for over 50 years, but with major expansion plans on both a local and national level the £260m turnover organisation needed growing room.

The organisation found a 30,000 sq foot factory at Cwmtillery which has been home to several furniture businesses, most recently Sofas-UK (prematurely heralded by myself in the Business Argus of December 17, 2002).

Since signing a lease on the premises four months ago, Remploy has spent £250,000 turning the property into a state-of-the-art manufacturing and learning centre.

The company has now transferred 70 jobs to the centre and has the space to be able offer many more should it be successful in winning new assembly contracts.

It currently fulfils contracts with local automotive component suppliers, pharmaceutical companies, disability aids specialists and supermarkets. Many of these contracts - such as the giant disc brake assemblies for Cwmbran-based Arvin Meritor - demand the highest possible standards.

UK company secretary Guy Phillips,who grew up in Pontypool, said: "Our new factory represents a substantial investment by the company and is a bright, modern and spacious working environment.

"A key part of the factory is its training facilities. We will now be able to offer training not only for our staff, but for any local people with disabilities or health problems.

"This training is designed to get people job-ready for opportunities we know exist in sectors like healthcare, call centres and administration. We think there are many people in this area who don't realise that they might qualify for help from Remploy and we really want to hear from them."

Mr Phillips thanked the trades unions, the Assembly and the WDA for the support his organisation has received.

Ms Davidson said: "Remploy is an excellent example of a company that is committed to lifelong learning, offering its employees access to a wide variety of learndirect courses which they can study at their own time and pace.

"I am heartened to see that Remploy employees have a personal development plan and that the company understands that education doesn't end at the school gates. Remploy's plan to expand its activities through wider training to get people job-ready and back into work is a unique opportunity for the people of Gwent."

Factory manager Graham Summers said: "We have a great team at Abertillery which produces the highest quality products. These new premises will enable us to expand our business and provide a more pleasant working environment."

If you would like to check out work or training opportunities contact Remploy on free phone 0845 6022886.