A Chesterfield firm who manufacture specialist tools for the drilling & mining industry have gained a new customer in Chile with a potential of £400,000 in orders a year, with help from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).

Chenalord Ltd, who employ 13 people in their Birdholme base, are immediately taking on two further staff. The order has also helped the firm increase its exports by 20%. 

Jenny Hormell, Managing Director of the firm, which was established in 1982, used UKTI's Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS) to identify suitable market opportunities and contacts. And they struck lucky with the Chilean customer.

Jenny said: 

"With help from UKTI we were in the right place at the right time. The Chilean company was looking for a supplier of drill tools and we were given the opportunity to introduce our products into the Chilean market.  

There are several mining industries in Chile. Chenalord's products will mainly be used for mining molybdenum, a silvery metal often used in the manufacture of aircraft parts, industrial motors and filaments, and copper.

Jenny continued: 

"The key to combating the recession for us has been exports. During the last few years our main market has been the USA. We also sell to Scandinavia, Czech Republic, Germany and more recently Canada. This order will increase our exports by 20% taking them up to 40% of our sales. Increasing our business overseas is key for us."  

The company are currently building a new factory on the Coney Green Industrial Estate and are due to move in during August. They are also investing in new machinery to enable faster and more efficient production. The new factory and new orders will lead to a further demand for staff.    

After the success with Chile the firm have their sights set on Australia.

Michael Hope, International Trade Adviser for UK Trade & Investment, said:

"If you want to future-proof your firm then you need to export, spreading the risk over a number of overseas markets. This contract win is great for Chenalord and the local area and we're pleased to be able to support them.  Other companies that are interested in expanding their sales should contact us to see how we can help them. For more information about how UKTI can help businesses to expand globally call 0845 052 4001."