Kenton Computer Forms of Cwmbran has raised £200,000 to fund a move to larger premises, buy new equipment, and take on one new member of staff.

The company was supported in its expansion by a £15,000 loan from UK Steel Enterprises (UKSE) the regeneration subsidiary of Corus.

UKSE helped launch Kenton in 1997, when Tony Meech installed his first press at premises on the Springvale Industrial Estate.

The company prints continuous stationery (printer feed for invoices and so on) and production will now be based at a larger unit on the same estate.

UKSE's first investment was £21,000, and this was followed by another loan of £35,000 enabling the firm to add extra presses and expand the quantity of work it could handle.

Turnover climbed to the £400,000 mark as Kenton built a reputation for reliability and quality.

"We found that there was never any need to advertise as we were getting enquiries by word-of-mouth," said Mr Meech.

"This shows that we are offering clients the quality they want."

Andy Morris, investment executive with UK Steel Enterprise, praised Kenton's management style and approach to business.

"In a competitive market a business has to move steadily forward, always keeping a close eye on pricing and costs.

"Kenton has built its reputation over the last six years to such as extent that all new work is by recommendation, and this is encouraging."

Kenton office manager Sonya Poole, says: "Clients like to see a well run company and they have respect for that.

"Credit and debtor control are most important, as is the production of management accounts and other information for audit."

Turnover is now edging up to the half million mark, and the aim is to consolidate around this figure, before devising a business plan for further expansion.

"UKSE has been a rock for the business," said Mr Meech.

"Having worked with the organisation from the start it means the staff know enough about us to make rapid decisions on further funding.

"And getting the funds through quickly means we can take advantage of opportunities when they arise - such as getting these new premises."

PICTURE: Andy Morris, of UK Steel Enterprises, left, and Tony Meech, managing director of Kenton Computer Forms of Cwmbran