Laser Bend Weld uses state-of-the-art machinery to laser cut, robot weld, bend, fold, and powder coat metal plates. Our products are used in factory fit-outs, office work stations, and in-vehicle electronics such as the Opal card readers on Sydney's buses. We also laser-cut thick structural steel used in buildings and mines. The 80 year-old company outgrew its Sydney factory and moved to bigger premises in Bathurst in 2012. Managing Director Steve Alexander said the relocation allowed the company to tap into a new regional market. A new focus on higher-value sales also increased profitability significantly. "A lot of our products were bulky and needed to be made close to the market in Sydney's hospitality industry, laundries, hospitals and nursing homes," Mr Alexander said. "We divested part of our business to a competitor, who also took on half of our staff who wished to remain in Sydney. We relocated all our high-tech machinery and other staff to Bathurst." Just over 12 months after the move, the company grew back to the same level of sales. They retained the customers in Sydney while developing a valuable market they had identified in Central West NSW. "With Sydney only a few hours away, we are finding it just as easy to continue to provide good service to our previous customers," Mr Alexander said. "When you put high-value products on a pallet, the distribution costs become insignificant." The company has tapped into the local mining, construction, and manufacturing industries.