Tony Woods founded Midland Steel Reinforcement Supplies in 1998. Originally, it operated out of rented premises located, for logistical reasons, in the Midlands. In 2004 a purpose-built factory was established in Mountmellick, Co Laois. The company employs 45 people.
The increase in weekly tonnage produced - from 50 to 1,250 tonnes a week - is its biggest achievement so far, the company says.
Product
The company supplies reinforcing bar cut and bent that is fabricated to engineers' requirements. It also supplies steel coil and mesh to order and is the first company to introduce a steel-mesh cut-to-length service in Ireland. It continues to liaise directly with construction engineers to help design and supply material for specific contracts.
The company has achieved reductions in the lead-time for steel orders from 14 days to two days, and counts the biggest steel mills and producers in Europe among its supplier base.
Customers
The company has reached a customer base in excess of 300 groups that are all involved in the construction industry. Initially, the company supplied a 26-county market; however, having recently been awarded the UK Cares certificate, it now supplies markets in Northern Ireland. The short-term goal is to expand into the UK market. Customers include John Sisk and Sons, Kildownet Utilities, Glenkerrin Group and P Elliot & Company.
Describe your progression from start-up to your current status?
We set up in a very basic yard in the Midlands producing 50 tonnes a week. We have since progressed to a state-of-the-art production facility producing over 1,250 tonnes per week.
What was the biggest risk you have taken?
By putting my reputation on the line by telling the owner of the world's largest mesh and coil plant that I would buy 10,000 tonnes per annum from them over a five-year period. We surpassed the 10,000-tonne mark after three years and we are now their number one export customer.
Express the biggest challenge you see your industry facing?
Stability in worldwide steel prices and continued steady and managed growth in the construction sector.
