Local Assembly Member Lee Waters has called on the Welsh Government to put local firms before foreign multi-nationals.
In a visit to a Parker Plant Hire recently, Mr Waters hailed the business as an example of a firm ’grounded’ in its community and said that it’s time to switch the focus of Government towards growing and retaining local talent.
Parker Plant Hire is Wales’ largest machinery and plant hire company. From dumpers to long reach excavators, the hire company services construction sites, concerts and major national events across Wales.
Mr Waters said: “George is one of Llanelli’s hidden heroes, quietly doing all he can to support the local community. Even during the height of the recession – when the company was losing thousands a week – he refused to lay anyone off.
“That commitment just doesn’t happen in larger companies where decisions are being made hundreds of miles away and employees are just another number on a ledger.
“The headlines politicians win through attracting a multinational company to Wales might be appealing, but this approach can mean a lot of money is invested in attracting businesses who – at the first sign of trouble – are back out the door.
“Welsh Government needs to find a better way to support grounded, local firms and I’m committed to pushing for this as part of my economic strategy for our community.”
George Parker, owner of Parker Plant Hire, said: “Being in business in Llanelli isn’t just a money-maker for me, it’s a passion. I want to give back to the community I grew up in.
“I’m proud that we show a different way of doing business, both towards our customers and to our staff. Above all else, we prioritise building positive relationships that means people stick with us. They know they won’t get better service or support anywhere else.”
