A family business has invested £1m into new technology to strengthen its position as a leading metal processor in the East of England.
A new laser cutting machinery has been installed at Optima Stainless in King's Lynn, which will yield a 30pc increase in production growth overnight.
The steel firm, based in the Hardwick Narrows Industrial Estate, will also see an expansion on site in May, which will include a 15,000 sq ft warehouse bringing 12 new jobs within a year.
Manager Andy Knowles said: 'The laser cutter is pretty full on, there are only three cutters like it in the UK at the moment at a working stage.
'We can expect new positions to be created, we foresee the need for additional drivers, warehouse operatives, sales staff and laser operatives.'
Optima was founded in 1992, initially running from a family home using the garage as storage. Over the years, the initial team of nine employees grew to 50.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here