Middlesbrough-based Materials Processing Institute (MPI) has welcomed the sale of Tata Steel’s Long Products Europe Division.
The new business, which will operate under the ‘British Steel’ brand, would include its Scunthorpe works, two mills in Teesside, an engineering workshop in Workington, a design consultancy in York, a mill in Hayange, France, and sales and distribution facilities.
MPI has a long-standing relationship with the Long Products Division as part of its commitment to supporting innovation and product development in the materials industry.
Chris McDonald, Chief Executive of the Materials Processing Institute, said: “The deal for the Long Products Division is very welcome and demonstrates the continuing importance of steelmaking as a vital enabler for economic growth.
“In addition to providing valuable employment, it is a foundation for UK manufacturing and infrastructure projects that benefit from the industry. MPI is a long-term partner of the Long Products operation and we look forward to working with the new British Steel business in the future.
“The challenge now is to ensure its continuing viability by developing new types of materials that will meet the challenges of global industry. This can be supported by the creation of a new industry-led Materials Catapult, which we are currently discussing with Government.
“This will help keep British steel at the forefront of global markets, securing current employment and creating future opportunities as the UK sector strengthens its position through innovation and quality.”