A company making safety barriers for industrial workplaces has landed a £60,000 grant to invest in plant and machinery.

Elland-based A-SAFE said the funding from the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) would enable the firm to significantly increase capacity and product range – safeguard existing jobs and creating a number of new roles.

A-SAFE, based at Ainleys Industrial Estate, has expanded rapidly in the last three years, growing by 40% to 70% annually. The company now has offices in seven countries and a worldwide workforce of more than 150. A-SAFE won the Queen’s Award for International Trade in 2014.

Since moving to new premises in 2012, output at the facility has doubled. And global demand for the firm’s cost saving barrier range means capacity will need to double again over the next two years to meet requirements.

Following the grant, A-SAFE will be hiring new personnel in various departments, including research and development, logistics, IT support and operations.

Director James Smith said: “With this grant we are pleased to be able to further invest in the future of A-SAFE and secure and create jobs in the process.

“At A-SAFE we pride ourselves on being an innovative company, with manufacturing at our heart, so along with the additions to our workforce, we are excited by the improvements in production and capacity that the new machinery will bring – especially in helping launch our new iFlex barrier range.”

The LEP helps business and enterprise to thrive, with the overall aim of growing the Leeds City Region economy. Businesses in the region, or those looking to locate there, can apply for LEP funding for projects that will create jobs and contribute to growth. The LEP’s grant funding programme is funded by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund. A-SAFE had previously been awarded £40,000 through the scheme.

Roger Marsh, LEP chairman, said: “I am particularly pleased that the LEP has supported this innovative manufacturing business to safeguard and create a number of jobs, helping us retain and attract talent to the region.

“I look forward to following A- SAFE as it continues its positive growth in the UK and overseas.

“Following the recent government announcement, further funding is available for businesses from across the Leeds City Region looking to invest and develop their business.

“I encourage more businesses to contact the LEP to see how we can support and enable business growth.”

A-SAFE, which was formed in 1984, provides safety barriers, rails and bollards for factories and warehouses. Clients include Asda, Carlsberg, DHL, H&M, John Lewis, Sainsbury’s Mercedes-Benz and Manchester Airport.