A STEELMAKER’S collapse is helping a vehicle graphics firm drive up business.

MK Designs has switched to UK Steel Enterprise’s Innovation Centre to meet increased demand.

The company has taken a workshop and offices on Redcar’s Kirkleatham Business Park, and says its expansion has been partly fuelled by SSI UK’s liquidation, as former steelworkers launch their own companies.

Keith Edwards, MK Designs’ founder, said: “I started the business at home in Eston, near Middlesbrough, hiring the workshop and unit space I needed from friends and acquaintances.

“However, I’ve wanted to be in the Innovation Centre for some time; it’s going to save me money and time having everything under one roof.

“Part of our recent growth is down to former SSI workers opting for selfemployment.

“We have done signage and vehicle graphics for new businesses in property maintenance, landscaping and even mobile gaming.”

Sue Kirk, of UK Steel Enterprise, Tata Steel’s business support subsidiary, added: “We’re really happy we were able to find Keith space.”