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A RECESSION-HIT Company diversifies

Shropshire manufacturer which saw its order book shrink by 90 per cent “almost overnight” was today celebrating a deal with which could result in sales of more than £150 million. Whitchurch-based Cobra UK, which makes seats for the automotive industry, was crippled when the economic downturn struck, with car manufacturers axing production lines and in some cases shutting down completely.

But now new export opportunities and a new design for a light-weight seat for the aviation industry, means the company is emerging from the recession and gaining orders.

Managing director Gary Seale said: “In October 2008, we were gripped by a worldwide slump which saw almost overnight the order books shrink by 90 per cent.  Luxury vehicles in particular were badly affected with some of the manufacturers claiming 30 per cent reduction in output, Cobra’s figures actually saw a reduction of 95 per cent.”

But export markets have helped keep Cobra in business, with a new deal to supply aircraft seats to Russia in the pipeline.

Mr Seale said a combination of new services and grant aid, a UK Trade & Investment initiative to export products and a “never say die” attitude had seen Cobra survive the worst of times