A PIONEERING Cradley Heath company has secured £20,000 of European money to help it expand. Paint re-engineering specialist Paint 360 is being supported by a European Regional Development Funded scheme run through the Black Country GOLD project.

The Station Road firm, which employs 11 people, was set up in 2011 to recycle waste paint from recycling centres and companies, and re-work the paint so it can be used again as premium grade emulsions or masonry paint.

Its unique production process reduces pollution and saves up to 70 per cent of raw energy compared to traditional manufacturing processes.

Paint 360 has received the funds in two grants over two years to invest in new machinery and equipment to increase production and take on new staff in its quest to become the recognised brand and market leader for recycled paint.

Black Country GOLD, led by Wolverhampton City Council in partnership with the Wolverhampton Business Solutions Centre, Sandwell, Dudley and Walsall councils, helps small and medium-sized businesses expand by up to 20 per cent.

Paint 360’s managing director Lee Cole said the Black Country GOLD funding was “an ideal opportunity to invest in new machinery and increase our production”.

He added: “It’s also important to us to give back to our local community, so we employ people who may face struggles entering the workplace, and this helps us to build a strong, dedicated team. “Coupled with investment in new equipment, we are in a great position leading our sector and are looking forward to a bright future.”

Councillor Ian Jones, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for jobs and the economy, said: “Black Country GOLD has helped Sandwell businesses with financial assistance for capital expenditure that will support growth.

“There have been a number of ambitious, innovative small and medium-sized enterprises in Sandwell who have benefited from the funding and the tailored support that comes with it. Paint 360 is just one of these within a sector that we are keen to promote.”