2024 has been a landmark year for ASD, filled with significant business milestones and ongoing community initiatives. As we reflect on the past year, it’s clear that ASD’s commitment to growth and community support has never been stronger. Here’s a look back at the highlights that defined our year:
Expanding Our Horizons
- January marked the opening of our new site in Newbridge, Edinburgh, which is now the largest metal stockholding and processing facility in Scotland. This expansion reinforces our ongoing commitment to serving our valued customers across Scotland with increased efficiency, proximity, and sustainable solutions.
- In March, we joined forces with Hierros Añon Group and returned to our roots by rebranding back to ASD Limited. By combining our strengths, ASD now leverages the Añon Group’s extensive resources, expertise, and network of mills, enabling us to operate with greater flexibility and efficiency. This partnership positions us to better meet the needs of our customers and deliver even more effective solutions.
- July marked another big step as ASD acquired the assets of Atlantic Steel. This acquisition has strengthened our portfolio and enhanced our capabilities in the supply and processing of De-coiled Hot Rolled Sheets and Reversing Mill Plates. Learn more about the acquisition.
- In November, we unveiled a groundbreaking £5.5 million automation line in Leeds, meaning that we are now poised to revolutionise steel processing with greater efficiency and precision. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the industry. Find details on the automation line here.
As we wrap up 2024, ASD is prepared for bigger and better things. This year has been marked by new partnerships and significant investments that lay a strong foundation for what’s to come. Looking ahead to 2025, we are gearing up for a series of initiatives aimed at further enhancing our capabilities and expanding our offerings. With investments in cutting-edge technology and a steadfast focus on customer-centric solutions, we’re not just adapting to the future – we’re leading it.
ASD Cares: Community and Beyond
Beyond business growth, we at ASD continue to prioritise community engagement through our ASD Cares initiatives. This year, we focused on education, local support, and charity donations.
Apprenticeship Levy Sponsorship
Continuing the commitment we began in 2023, we’ve so far supported 18 apprentices across four nurseries, sponsoring a total of £105,594 over the two years to nurture the next generation of talent.
This year’s beneficiaries included early childhood educators and team leaders from Busy Bees nursery in Durham, reinforcing our dedication to local education.
Charitable Endeavours
At ASD, giving back is part of who we are. This year, we proudly supported employees in their fundraising efforts, matching donations of up to £500 per initiative to make a bigger impact:
- Faye Richardson raised £1,540 for Cancer Research UK by completing the Yorkshire Marathon.
- Katrina Goodman ran 31 miles in May, raising £580 for the Bowelbabe Fund.
- Joanna James and her friend took on the Manchester Marathon, gathering £2,640 for Mary Stevens Hospice.
- Daniel Scholey participated in the London Marathon and raised £3,132 for the Make-A-Wish foundation.
We also sponsored local youth teams, including Darwen Rangers JFC Red Under-12s, Steve Rowley Biddulph from Newcastle Town Football Club Youth, and Lee Cawthera CSL from Hunslet ARLFC Juniors, supporting grassroots sports and fostering community spirit.
Ongoing Support for Mission Christmas and Local Initiatives
This year, we continued our support for Mission Christmas, ensuring that disadvantaged children received gifts over the holidays. Throughout the year, our Leeds sites hosted clothing bins for Cash for Kids, and we contributed to Biddulph in Bloom, helping beautify our local area through a dedicated volunteer initiative.
Stay tuned as we prepare to unveil more exciting news in 2025!