Zimmer Biomet creates new jobs at Bridgend factory

An American medical manufacturing firm is to expand its plant in Bridgend, creating nearly 40 jobs.

Zimmer Biomet employs more than 800 people in the south Wales town making hip and knee replacements.

The Welsh Government is contributing £700,000 to the £2.5m deal, being announced by First Minister Carwyn Jones during his trade tour of the USA.

He said the investment "secures the long term sustainable growth of the business in Wales".

The money will be spent creating a European centre of excellence for the porous coating of orthopaedic implants, and is predicted to safeguard 50 other jobs.

Mr Jones added that the company's ongoing relationship with NHS Wales would help "improve health service delivery and deliver cost savings".

Robin Barney, Zimmer Biomet's senior vice president for global operations and logistics, said the company was "proud" of its operations in Bridgend.

"It remains an important component of the company's global operations," she added.