Business
Welsh industries to see major cuts in energy bills under UK Government plan
Steel, cement and chemical plants among those set to benefit from landmark support scheme
WELSH businesses are set to benefit from a major cut in electricity costs after the UK Government confirmed new support for the country’s most energy-intensive industries.
From April 2026, around 500 UK companies will save up to £420 million a year through the Government’s Network Charging Compensation Scheme, which increases the discount on electricity network charges from 60% to 90%.
The move forms part of the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy and aims to bring industrial energy prices in line with those of major European economies.
Major boost for Welsh industry
Welsh firms including Tata Steel in Port Talbot, Brecon Carreg in Llandeilo, Amcor Flexibles in Swansea, Kronospan near Wrexham, and Vishay in Newport are among those expected to benefit.
Tata Steel, currently building a new electric arc furnace in Port Talbot, says the investment will reduce CO₂ emissions and secure around 5,000 jobs once complete.
Brecon Carreg, which bottled more than 50 million litres of water last year, is also set to gain from lower electricity network costs.
The Government says the discount will help safeguard vital industries such as steel, chemicals, glass, cement and paper, which together employ around 400,000 people across the UK.
‘Level playing field for British industry’
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said: “British industry deserves a level playing field – and this government is delivering it. This landmark support will help them stay competitive on the global stage so they can invest and grow here in the UK.”
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens added: “We are backing our key Welsh industries to drive economic growth, boost investment and create well-paid jobs. By providing cheaper bills to key sectors like manufacturing and steelmaking, while developing energy sources of the future such as floating offshore wind, the UK Government will make Wales one of the best places to invest and do business.”
Complementing Welsh innovation
Cabinet Secretary for Energy Rebecca Evans MS said the support would complement Wales’ existing focus on innovation and skills:
“Cheaper energy means stronger investment, more opportunities, and better jobs. Once again we see the benefits of being a partner in a strong United Kingdom.”
Aligning prices with Europe
The Network Charging Compensation Scheme is designed to cut the cost of accessing the UK’s electricity grid for energy-intensive users, bringing prices closer to those seen in France and Germany.
The Government is also launching a new Connections Accelerator Service by the end of 2025 to speed up grid access for major projects, supporting faster investment and job creation.
A full list of Welsh companies eligible for the scheme includes Tata Steel, Kronospan, WEPA UK, Dow Silicones, Plastipak UK, Montgomery Waters, Cabot Carbon, and others across key manufacturing sectors.
Business
Extra £2.5m boost for Wales’ creative industries
Funding to strengthen film, TV and publishing sectors
THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has announced a further £2.5 million for Wales’ creative industries, delivering fresh investment for the film and television sector and extra support for publishers facing ongoing financial pressures.
Creative Wales currently supports more than 3,500 businesses, employing over 35,000 people. The latest figures show the industry generated £1.5 billion in turnover during 2023 – up more than ten per cent on the previous year.
The additional funding comes shortly after the Government confirmed £2 million for Bad Wolf to deliver two new high-end TV productions, a move expected to generate £30 million of economic activity in Wales.
Since Creative Wales was launched, the Welsh Government has now committed £33.8 million across 70 productions, resulting in £419.7 million of investment back into the Welsh economy.
Wales’ creative strengths were showcased this week at the Wales Investment Summit, and again on Friday when the British-Irish Council placed “Creative” at the centre of its discussions.
Culture Minister Jack Sargeant said Wales had every reason to be proud of its creative talent.
He said: “The creative industries are a real success story for Wales. Whether it’s actors, storytellers, musicians, animators or games developers, our creative industries consistently put our nation on the global stage.
“Not only is the industry an important economic driver, but we are fostering the next generation of creatives by incentivising training and apprenticeship opportunities. We are committed to nurturing talent, supporting creative businesses and encouraging the creation of high-quality content that stands tall among other countries.”
Business
RM Training and Security Solutions shortlisted for major UK festival industry awards
Support service and supplier categories recognise Milford Haven firm’s work with outdoor events
RM TRAINING and Security Solutions Ltd has been shortlisted for two national honours at the Festival Supplier Awards 2026, placing the Pembrokeshire-based company among the top outdoor-event service providers in the UK.

The finalists were announced this week ahead of the awards ceremony, which will take place on Thursday, 29 January 2026, at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in central London. The annual event celebrates the teams and suppliers who deliver festivals and large-scale outdoor events across Britain.
RM Training and Security Solutions has been named a finalist in two categories — Best Support Service (Training) and Best Supplier — recognising its growing reputation for high-quality training provision, professional standards, and reliable on-the-ground event support.
Now in their eleventh year, the Festival Supplier Awards have become a staple of the industry calendar, providing a platform for companies to showcase innovation, specialist expertise and sector-leading achievements.
Event director Michelle Tayton said the standard of entries this year had been exceptional.
“Once again, we’ve been blown away by both the volume and calibre of entries for the Festival Supplier Awards,” she said. “Our finalists really highlight the creativity, capability and capacity that exists within the outdoor event industry. Making the shortlist is an achievement in itself and RM Training and Security Solutions Ltd has been recognised for its hard work and ability to deliver.”
Entries are judged by a panel of high-profile industry professionals, including representatives from Live Nation, IMG, London Marathon Events, CarFest, Engine No.4, Stable Events, and other major UK organisers.
The ceremony and gala dinner will take place in London on Thursday, 29 January 2026.
Business
New sewing studio in Haverfordwest offering bespoke dressmaking and workshops
Councillor welcomes Seam Shop Atelier to Quay Street
A NEW sewing and dressmaking studio has opened in the heart of Haverfordwest, offering everything from clothing alterations to custom-designed garments.
County Councillor for the Castle Ward, Thomas Tudor, visited Seam Shop Atelier this week and praised the business for bringing new skills and services to the town. The studio is run by professional seamstress Flavia Santos, who has built a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and a passion for creative design.
Wide range of services
Seam Shop Atelier provides a full suite of alteration and repair services, including zipper replacements, hemming for skirts, dresses, trousers and coats, sleeve adjustments, and general garment repairs.
The shop also specialises in bridal and occasion wear, offering expert fitting and alterations for wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and prom dresses.
As a trained dressmaker, Flavia also produces custom designs and handmade items—ranging from bespoke dresses to accessories—tailored to each client’s needs.
In addition, the business offers curtain alteration services, including shortening, adding new tape and updating linings.
Workshops for all ages
The studio is set to host sewing workshops for different age groups, including introductory sessions for children aged eight to twelve, helping young learners gain confidence with sewing machines and garment creation.
Welcoming a new business to the town
Speaking after his visit, Cllr Tudor said he was delighted to see a new independent business opening its doors in Quay Street, adding that Flavia’s skills and enthusiasm would be an asset to the community.
Location
Seam Shop Atelier is located at 8 Quay Street, Haverfordwest.
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