A company specialising in fabrication and metal welding has set its sights on a greener future within a traditionally carbon-rich industry.

Cirencester Fabrication Services, which has been dedicated to designing, fabricating and welding the highest quality products from aluminium, mild steel and stainless steel for over four decades, is going from strength to strength under Marc Begg, who bought the company in 2020.

In his first year, Marc achieved double-digit revenue growth and is projected to exceed a further 25 per cent increase in year two, thanks down to his experience of turning businesses of all sizes into profitable outlets.

But his ambitions stretch beyond profitability, and he has already set the business on a steady course toward becoming more sustainable.

The manufacturing sector contributes around one-fifth of global carbon emissions and the nature of the trade relies heavily on carbon-rich processes. Despite this, Marc has implemented a long-term strategy which explores the company's carbon footprint - with the aim of tackling issues such as supply chains, insulation and the production process itself.

The business recently underwent a comprehensive energy audit, organised by The Growth Hub, a fully-funded business support programme.

The energy audit provided a list of actionable advice to reduce energy consumption across the business, which saw Marc replace all of the lighting in the factory with low-energy LED alternatives. He is also working to establish a more carbon-sensitive supply chain, planting trees to offset carbon emissions and recycling or repurposing as much material as possible.

Marc Begg, owner of Cirencester Fabrication Services, said: "Getting to net zero isn't a smooth and simple journey, though it is firmly on our agenda at Cirencester Fabrication Services.

"The magnitude of the climate crisis is something we simply can't ignore and, given the stereotypes about our industry, I was determined to pull together an ambitious, yet achievable long-term plan.

"We have received some great guidance over the last two years, especially from our friends at the Growth Hub, who fully support our sustainable ambitions and the overall business growth strategy.

"A lot of business owners shy away from the need to go green. However, not only is this no longer an option, but we are demonstrating that you can continue to grow whilst doing so - especially in our typically carbon-rich industry."

Peter Brown, Growth Hub business guide, said: "When we first met Marc, it was evident that he has an appreciation for sustainable business, so we quickly put him in contact with an energy auditor who has laid the foundations for his green plan.

"This green ambition is something we admire in local Gloucestershire businesses and he is really setting an example for others in the industry and the local area."