Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a phrase that we hope has become an important part of your everyday business operations, or at least on your radar for future planning.
With sustainability and community impact becoming an increasingly central part of business focus, CSR can take many forms. In this case study, we’re shining a light on long standing Shropshire Chamber member Fabweld Steel Products, and the steps they’ve taken to work towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Fabweld Steel Products, founded in 1988, are market leaders in the design and manufacture of access covers and other fabricated steel products for the construction industry, with innovation, quality, and environmental responsibility at the heart of their work and values.
Managing Director at Fabweld, Wayne Carter began by explaining, “Sustainable practices translate to a more efficient business, or cost saving somewhere down the line... We wouldn’t be able to grow our business without focusing on sustainability.”
Fabweld’s journey has been shaped by a blend of environmental awareness and commercial pragmatism. While Wayne draws inspiration from environmental advocates like David Attenborough, the company understands that meaningful change in business must be both ethically driven and financially viable. At Fabweld, sustainability is not just a sentiment, it’s a strategic imperative. This mindset led to the adoption of ISO 14001 over a decade ago and continues to guide investment in low-carbon technologies and process innovation.
Earlier this year, Fabweld’s efforts were acknowledged with commendation following their application for the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development, affirming their commitment to embedding sustainability as a core business differentiator.
However, with success comes challenges and shifting towards greener operations has at times been confronting for Fabweld. Wayne said, “We’re not a big business, we don’t have the dedicated resources of a large organisation. So, the biggest obstacle for most SMEs would be they don’t have that level of expertise... You’ve got to educate yourself.”
Fabweld takes a practical, data-driven approach to sustainability. Rather than relying solely on sentiment or external pressure, the company has invested in energy efficiency audits, operational analysis, and external expertise to identify and address inefficiencies. While artificial intelligence is not yet central to Fabweld’s operations, it’s expected to play a significant role, particularly in intelligent design, predictive maintenance, and streamlining processes. This forward-thinking approach helps ensure that sustainability remains both commercially viable but also makes solid business sense.
One of Fabweld’s most transformative sustainability investments has been the installation of an on-site nitrogen generation and storage system. Nitrogen is critical for laser cutting, particularly when working with stainless steel and thicker materials. Before this investment, Fabweld relied on frequent external deliveries.
The new system has eliminated 42 deliveries per year, though it’s worth noting that these savings are based on older, lower-capacity equipment. Without this upgrade, Fabweld wouldn’t have been able to scale operations to support its more powerful laser system, making nitrogen supply a potential barrier to growth. The real benefits go far beyond reduced deliveries. They include increased output, lower emissions, and greater long-term operational resilience.
Here are some more key initiatives Fabweld has introduced:
- Solar PV installation and expansion
- On-site nitrogen generation and storage…
- Investment in high-efficiency laser cutting technology
- Carbon footprint reporting
- Intelligent product design to reduce material use
- LED lighting upgrades
- EV charging point at reduced rates
- Apprenticeship programme and internal talent development
Fabweld champions sustainable workforce development by working with SBC Training and has a strong track record of developing talent internally.
Wayne Carter said, “More than 50% of the staff here have come down the apprenticeship route.”
For businesses looking to improve or work towards their own CSR, Wayne advised on a few tips:
- Involve your finance team early to build a strong business case.
- Start small and build momentum - even simple changes like fixing air leaks or upgrading lighting can make a difference.
- Invest profits back into sustainability.
- Educate yourself or appoint a sustainability champion.
Looking ahead, Fabweld plans to introduce on-site battery storage, expand solar PV, explore wind energy, continue innovating product design to reduce material use, and embed ESG more deeply across the business.
Wayne Carter explained, “Sustainability does pay because it’s doing things in a sustainable way that are going to impact the bottom line of your business.”
Fabweld’s journey shows how SMEs can lead in sustainability through innovation, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Their story is a powerful example of how doing the right thing for the planet can also be the smartest move for business.
Shropshire Chamber encourages local businesses to share best practice around sustainability, whether it’s tips, tricks, offers, or success stories. If you’ve got something to share with the Shropshire business community, get in touch with our marketing team at
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